The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word LEVITATES
L
E
V
I
T
A
T
E
S
More clues leading to the result LEVITATES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Drifts" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case drifts = levitates.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 LEVITATES mean?
LEVITATES verb- To cause to rise in the air and float, as if in defiance of gravity.
- To be suspended in the air, as if in defiance of gravity.