Cryptic crossword clue
Just half-dead – beginning to rally – then died 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word DESERVED

I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
D
E
S
E
R
V
E
D

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Just" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case just = deserved.
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 DESERVED mean?

DESERVED verb
  1. To be entitled to, as a result of past actions; to be worthy to have.
  2. To earn, win.
  3. To reward, to give in return for service.
  4. To serve; to treat; to benefit.

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