The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word WIMPIEST
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
W
I
M
P
I
E
S
T
Buddy explains!

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 WIMPIEST mean?
WIMPIEST adjective- Having the characteristics of a wimp; feeble, indecisive, cowardly.