The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word PRESSING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Ironing/needing immediate attention" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case ironing/needing immediate attention = pressing.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 PRESSING mean?
PRESSING verb- To exert weight or force against, to act upon with force or weight; to exert pressure upon.
- To activate a button or key by exerting a downward or forward force on it, and then releasing it.
- To compress, squeeze.
- To clasp, hold in an embrace.
- To reduce to a particular shape or form by pressure, especially flatten or smooth.
- To flatten a selected area of fabric using an iron with an up-and-down, not sliding, motion, so as to avoid disturbing adjacent areas.
- To drive or thrust by pressure, to force in a certain direction.
- To weigh upon, oppress, trouble.
- To force to a certain end or result; to urge strongly.
- To try to force (something upon someone).
- To hasten, urge onward.
- To urge, beseech, entreat.
- To lay stress upon.
- To throng, crowd.
- To print.
- To force into service, particularly into naval service.
- The application of pressure by a press or other means.
- A metal or plastic part made with a press.
- The process of improving the appearance of clothing by improving creases and removing wrinkles with a press or an iron.
- A memento preserved by pressing, folding, or drying between the leaves of a flat container, book, or folio. Usually done with a flower, ribbon, letter, or other soft, small keepsake.
- The extraction of juice from fruit using a press.
- A phonograph record; a number of records pressed at the same time.
- Urgent insistence.
- Needing urgent attention.
- Insistent, earnest, or persistent.