The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word TEALEAF
T
E
A
L
E
A
F
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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 TEALEAF mean?
TEALEAF noun- (usually used in the plural) A dried fragment of a leaf of the tea plant used in making the drink tea.
- A thief.