The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word INWARD
I
N
W
A
R
D
More clues leading to the result INWARD
- During conflict, duke reveals secret
- Admitted to part of hospital – mental perhaps
- Popular guardian’s responsibility directed to centre
- During hostilities Democrat reveals secret
- Occupying hospital bed, private
- Where the outpatient cannot be
- Private eye, when talking on the phone, pulled over
- Private patients are treated here
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "secret" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case secret = inward.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 INWARD mean?
INWARD noun- (chiefly in the plural) That which is inward or within; the inner parts or organs of the body; the viscera.
- (chiefly in the plural) The mental faculties.
- A familiar friend or acquaintance.
- Situated on the inside; that is within, inner; belonging to the inside.
- Intimate, closely acquainted; familiar.
- Towards the inside.