The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word DRINKING
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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 DRINKING mean?
DRINKING verb- To consume (a liquid) through the mouth.
- (metonymic) To consume the liquid contained within (a bottle, glass, etc.).
- To consume alcoholic beverages.
- To take in (a liquid), in any manner; to suck up; to absorb; to imbibe.
- To take in; to receive within one, through the senses; to inhale; to hear; to see.
- To smoke, as tobacco.
- An act or session by which drink is consumed, especially alcoholic beverages.