The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word STARTING
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Initial" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case initial = starting.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 STARTING mean?
STARTING verb- To begin, commence, initiate.
- To begin an activity.
- To have its origin (at), begin.
- To startle or be startled; to move or be moved suddenly.
- To break away, to come loose.
- To put into play.
- To pour out; to empty; to tap and begin drawing from.
- To start one's periods (menstruation).
- The act of something that starts.