Cryptic crossword clue
Held back in reserve, and groomed 10

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word RESTRAINED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
R
E
S
T
R
A
I
N
E
D


Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Held back" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case held back = restrained.
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 RESTRAINED mean?

RESTRAINED verb
  1. To control or keep in check.
  2. To deprive of liberty.
  3. To restrict or limit.
RESTRAINED adjective
  1. Held back, limited, kept in check or under control.

Latest crossword clues with full explanations