The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word MOTHERING
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More clues leading to the result MOTHERING
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Looking after" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case looking after = mothering.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 MOTHERING mean?
MOTHERING verb- To give birth to or produce (as its female parent) a child. (Compare father.)
- To treat as a mother would be expected to treat her child; to nurture.
- To cause to contain mother.
- (of an alcohol) To develop mother.
- The nurturing of a child by its mother.
- The protective behaviour of a mother towards her child.
- Nurturing or protective behaviour reminiscent of that performed by a literal mother.
- Shortened form of a-mothering ; practice of visiting one's literal or figurative mother or mother church (compare Mothering Sunday).