Cryptic crossword clue
Finishes copper layers, first article removed 10

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word CULMINATES

I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
C
U
L
M
I
N
A
T
E
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Finishes" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case finishes = culminates.
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 CULMINATES mean?

CULMINATES verb
  1. Of a heavenly body, to be at the highest point, reach its greatest altitude.
  2. To reach the (physical) summit, highest point, peak etc.
  3. To reach a climax; to come to the decisive point (especially as an end or conclusion).
  4. To finalize, bring to a conclusion, form the climax of.

Latest crossword clues with full explanations