The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word GRIEVED
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More clues leading to the result GRIEVED
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The straight part
We know that "was suffering" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case was suffering = grieved.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 GRIEVED mean?
GRIEVED verb- To cause sorrow or distress to.
- To feel very sad about; to mourn; to sorrow for.
- To experience grief.
- To harm.
- To submit or file a grievance (about).