The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word EXPECTED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
E
X
P
E
C
T
E
D
More clues leading to the result EXPECTED
- Dumped sport journalist outside court — it’s not out of the 24 down
- Former lover audibly kissed boy, as anticipated
- Apprehended and barred after exchange with PC
- In power replacing Liberal? Vote received makes this likely
- Trusted mate once went across Connecticut
- Due to be sold overseas – or to European Community
- 5d
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "likely" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case likely = expected.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 EXPECTED mean?
EXPECTED verb- To predict or believe that something will happen
- To consider obligatory or required.
- To consider reasonably due.
- (continuous aspect only, of a woman or couple) To be pregnant, to consider a baby due.
- To wait for; to await.
- To wait; to stay.
- Anticipated; thought to be about to arrive or occur