Cryptic crossword clue
Held back artist in sophisticated surroundings 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word REFRAINED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
R
E
F
R
A
I
N
E
D

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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 REFRAINED mean?

REFRAINED verb
  1. To hold back, to restrain (someone or something).
  2. To show restraint; to hold oneself back.
  3. To repress (a desire, emotion etc.); to check or curb.
  4. (with preposition "from") To stop oneself from some action or interference; to abstain.
  5. To abstain from (food or drink).

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