Cryptic crossword clue
Launch, missing bearing, able to drift on small swell 5-3

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word BLAST-OFF

B
L
A
S
T
-
O
F
F

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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 = blast-off.
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 BLAST-OFF mean?

BLAST-OFF noun
  1. The countdown and launch of a rocket, missile or spacecraft

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