The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word BOOSTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
B
O
O
S
T
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Encourages" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case encourages = boosts.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 BOOSTS mean?
BOOSTS noun- A push from behind, as to one who is endeavoring to climb.
- Something that helps, or adds power or effectiveness; assistance.
- (automotive engineering) A positive intake manifold pressure in cars with turbochargers or superchargers.
- To lift or push from behind (one who is endeavoring to climb); to push up.
- (by extension) To help or encourage (something) to increase or improve; to assist in overcoming obstacles.
- To steal.
- To jump-start a vehicle by using cables to connect the battery in a running vehicle to the battery in a vehicle that won't start.
- To give a booster shot to.
- To amplify; to signal boost.