The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word ASPIRATES
A
S
P
I
R
A
T
E
S
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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 ASPIRATES mean?
ASPIRATES noun- The puff of air accompanying the release of a plosive consonant.
- A sound produced by such a puff of air.
- A mark of aspiration (#) used in Greek; the asper, or rough breathing.