The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word PROVIDENT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
P
R
O
V
I
D
E
N
T
More clues leading to the result PROVIDENT
- Wise caterers employed by Southbank theatre will?
- Prudent to show conservationists papers found inside
- Prudent to conceal identity in test on books
- Furnish with only half of rent, being thrifty
- Supply second part of Bible only, being frugal
- Far-seeing, in favour of film presentation, say, by hospital department
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "thrifty" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case thrifty = provident.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 PROVIDENT mean?
PROVIDENT adjective- Possessing, exercising, or demonstrating great care and consideration for the future.
- Showing care in the use of something (especially money or provisions), so as to avoid wasting it.
- Providing (for someone’s needs).