The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word HARDIHOOD
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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More clues leading to the result HARDIHOOD
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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 HARDIHOOD mean?
HARDIHOOD noun- Unyielding boldness and daring; firmness in doing something that exposes one to difficulty, danger, or calamity; intrepidness.
- Excessive boldness; foolish daring; offensive assurance.
- (of a plant) Ability to withstand extreme conditions, hardiness.