The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word EMOTES
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
E
M
O
T
E
S
Buddy explains!
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 EMOTES mean?
EMOTES noun- A virtual action, presented to other users as reported speech, rather than a direct message.
- (Twitch-speak) Short for emoticon.
- To display emotions openly, especially while acting.
- To induce an emotion in.
- To perform a virtual action, presented to other users as reported speech, rather than sending a direct message.