The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word PANJANDRUM
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
P
A
N
J
A
N
D
R
U
M
More clues leading to the result PANJANDRUM
- Pompous leader has tattoo after first month on vessel
- Harshly criticise judge along with strange self-important official
- Pompous official judge’s first with spirit to support censure
- God given month to beat VIP
- Criticise judge initially, and strange potentate
- Pot, joint along with alcoholic drink for pompous official
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "self-important officia" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case self-important officia = panjandrum.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 PANJANDRUM mean?
PANJANDRUM noun- An important, powerful or influential person.
- A self-important or pretentious person.
- A massive, rocket-propelled, explosive-laden cart designed by the British military during World War II.