The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word CRAP
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
C
R
A
P
More clues leading to the result CRAP
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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 CRAP mean?
CRAP noun- The husk of grain; chaff.
- (mildly) Something worthless or of poor quality; junk.
- (mildly) Nonsense; something untrue.
- (mildly) Faeces/feces.
- (mildly) An act of defecation.
- To defecate.
- To defecate in or on (clothing etc.).
- To bullshit.
- (mildly) Of poor quality.
- Expression of worry, fear, shock, surprise, disgust, annoyance or dismay.
- A losing throw of 2, 3, or 12 in craps.