The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word LETTERMAN
L
E
T
T
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M
A
N
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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 LETTERMAN mean?
LETTERMAN noun- A student who has attained a specified level of participation in a sporting or other activity, and is awarded a cloth “letter” to be affixed to an item of clothing.