Cryptic crossword clue
Launch unfinished biography with support of aristocrat 4-3

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word LIFT-OFF

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
L
I
F
T
-
O
F
F

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 = lift-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 LIFT-OFF mean?

LIFT-OFF noun
  1. The point in the launch of a rocket or an aircraft where it leaves contact with the ground.
  2. The point at which a person or animal leaves the ground, as for example when jumping.

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