The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word POME
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
P
O
M
E
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The straight part
We know that "fruit" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case fruit = pome.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 POME mean?
POME noun- A type of fruit in which the often edible flesh arises from the swollen base of the flower and not from the carpels.
- A ball of silver or other metal, filled with hot water and used by a Roman Catholic priest in cold weather to warm his hands during the service.
- To grow to a head, or form a head in growing.