The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word PRE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
P
R
E
More clues leading to the result PRE
- Heartlessly congratulate oneself, having raised contract
- Used power to wrestle hooligan
- Reprising rap, he performs with finest artistic style
- Anticipate politician interrupting Peter’s constituents
- Having more importance than others in front of cardinal
- More crude power mounting before hostilities
- There is apparel specially designed for artists
- Failure of power backed study from other hands
- Countdown to blast-off leaving area, not yet having got to one?
- Outstanding groom that’s first to hug my one
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "contract" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case contract = pre.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 PRE mean?
PRE preposition- Before (something significant).
- Precum, Cowper's fluid, pre-ejaculate.
- To precum, to pre-ejaculate.
- A preparty.