The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word REAPING
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More clues leading to the result REAPING
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "It could mean gathering" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case it could mean gathering = reaping.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 REAPING mean?
REAPING verb- To cut (for example a grain) with a sickle, scythe, or reaping machine
- To gather (e.g. a harvest) by cutting.
- To obtain or receive as a reward, in a good or a bad sense.
- To terminate a child process that has previously exited, thereby removing it from the process table.
- To deprive of the beard; to shave.
- The act by which something is reaped.