The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word RESPECTED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
R
E
S
P
E
C
T
E
D
More clues leading to the result RESPECTED
- Reclined, maybe, clutching muscle, and given proper treatment
- Esteemed sappers scanned in shed
- Looked up to revolutionary having absorbed short description
- Took time out squeezing muscle to be admired
- Relaxed about exercise, Charlie appreciated
- Admired 19 wandering with energy
- Stayed in bed to preserve muscle that’s admired
- Relaxed, having trapped muscle — it’s appreciated
- Highly regarded precedents broken after nationalist's exile
- Took it easy having physical training court — it's appreciated
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Esteemed" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case esteemed = respected.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 RESPECTED mean?
RESPECTED verb- To have respect for.
- To have regard for something, to observe a custom, practice, rule or right.
- To abide by an agreement.
- To take notice of; to regard as worthy of special consideration; to heed.
- (dated except in "respecting") To relate to; to be concerned with.
- To regard; to consider; to deem.
- To look toward; to face.
- Deserving of respect; due special honor or appreciation.