The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word TACKING
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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More clues leading to the result TACKING
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "changing direction" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case changing direction = tacking.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 TACKING mean?
TACKING verb- To nail with a tack (small nail with a flat head).
- To sew/stich with a tack (loose seam used to temporarily fasten pieces of cloth).
- To maneuver a sailing vessel so that its bow turns through the wind, i.e. the wind changes from one side of the vessel to the other.
- To add something as an extra item.
- Often paired with "up", to place the tack on a horse.
- Loose temporary stitches in dressmaking etc.
- The act of changing tack.
- A union of securities given at different times, all of which must be redeemed before an intermediate purchaser can interpose a claim.
- The joining together of consecutive periods of possession of property, especially between squatters in cases of adverse possession.