The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word SENSOR
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
E
N
S
O
R
More clues leading to the result SENSOR
- Detective Gadget succeeded inside the CID, for example
- One detects edit in audio
- Flowers return, fed with nitrogen, I detect
- It detects blue-pencil reportedly
- ... by Spanish man without leading scientific device
- Import restricted with gold detector
- Part of a digital imaging device with the inspector on the radio
- Flowers are returned with a bit of newness — I detect
- Electronic device chosen, sorted boxes
- Mister in Madrid acquires Sony's foremost receiver
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Detective Gadget" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case detective gadget = sensor.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SENSOR mean?
SENSOR noun- A device or organ that detects certain external stimuli and responds in a distinctive manner.