The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word PROPEL
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
P
R
O
P
E
L
More clues leading to the result PROPEL
- Drive from place across moor
- Expert training learner to drive forward
- Lopper tidied up drive
- Thrust cable into place
- Push for reduced charge
- Support the Spanish cast
- Launch fitting with a different side indicator
- Push forward in short formal line
- Fasten in place and push!
- Finally change hands in correct move
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Launch" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case launch = propel.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 PROPEL mean?
PROPEL verb- To provide an impetus for motion or physical action, to cause to move in a certain direction; to drive forward.
- To provide an impetus for non-physical change, to make to arrive to a certain situation or result.