The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word ASSASSINATES
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The cryptic/wordplay part
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Crossword Answer definitions
ASSASSINATES verb- To murder someone, especially an important person, by a sudden or obscure attack, especially for ideological or political reasons.
- To harm, ruin, or defame severely or destroy by treachery, slander, libel, or obscure attack.