The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word POSSESSED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
P
O
S
S
E
S
S
E
D
More clues leading to the result POSSESSED
- Had to be in need of an exorcist?
- Bedevilled groups spend oddly
- Had search party status evaluated externally
- Like something of yours or mine that’s crazy
- Had group that’s armed Isis held every now and then
- Stewardesses so polite holding back berserk
- Group’s on speed, occasionally crazy
- Goddesses so powerful holding back infatuated
- Berserk gang’s oddly steady
- Had to be under a spell
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Had" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case had = possessed.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 POSSESSED mean?
POSSESSED verb- To have; to have ownership of.
- To take control of someone's body or mind, especially in a supernatural manner.
- (chiefly with of) To vest ownership in (someone, or oneself); to give someone power or knowledge; to acquaint; to inform.
- Controlled by evil spirits.
- Seized by powerful emotions.
- (construed with of) Having; owning.