Cryptic crossword clue
Failure initially in stability device 3

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word FIN

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
F
I
N

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The straight part
We know that "stability device" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case stability device = fin.
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 FIN mean?

FIN noun
  1. One of the appendages of a fish, used to propel itself and to manoeuvre/maneuver.
  2. A similar appendage of a cetacean or other marine animal.
  3. A thin, rigid component of an aircraft, extending from the fuselage and used to stabilise and steer the aircraft.
  4. A similar structure on the tail of a bomb, used to help keep it on course.
  5. A hairstyle, resembling the fin of a fish, in which the hair is combed and set into a vertical ridge along the top of the head from about the crown to the forehead.
  6. A device worn by divers and swimmers on their feet.
  7. An extending part on a surface of a radiator, engine, heatsink, etc., used to facilitate cooling.
  8. A sharp raised edge (generally in concrete) capable of damaging a roof membrane or vapor retarder.
FIN verb
  1. To cut the fins from a fish, shark, etc.
  2. (Of a fish) to swim with the dorsal fin above the surface of the water.
  3. To swim in the manner of a fish.
  4. To provide (a motor vehicle etc) with fins.
FIN noun
  1. (formerly Australia) a five-pound (£5) note; the sum of five pounds.
  2. A five-dollar bill; the sum of five dollars.

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