The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word HUGGED
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
H
U
G
G
E
D
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 HUGGED mean?
HUGGED verb- To crouch; huddle as with cold.
- To cling closely together.
- To embrace by holding closely, especially in the arms.
- To stay close to (the shore etc.)
- To hold fast; to cling to; to cherish.