The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word GLADDER
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
G
L
A
D
D
E
R
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "happier" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case happier = gladder.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 GLADDER mean?
GLADDER adjective- Pleased, happy, gratified.
- Having a bright or cheerful appearance; expressing or exciting joy; producing gladness.