Cryptic crossword clue
Face punishment, omitting initial on census 11

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 11 letter word COUNTENANCE

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
C
O
U
N
T
E
N
A
N
C
E

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Face" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case face = countenance.
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.

Crossword Answer definitions

COUNTENANCE noun
  1. Appearance, especially the features and expression of the face.
  2. Favour; support; encouragement.
  3. Superficial appearance; show; pretense.
  4. Calm facial expression, composure, self-control.
COUNTENANCE verb
  1. To tolerate, support, sanction, patronise or approve of something.

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