The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word APPREHENSIVE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
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More clues leading to the result APPREHENSIVE
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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 APPREHENSIVE mean?
APPREHENSIVE adjective- Anticipating something with anxiety or fear.
- Perceptive; quick to learn; capable of understanding using one's intellect.