The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word NOS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
N
O
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "numbers" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case numbers = nos.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 NOS mean?
NOS noun- A negating expression; an answer that shows disagreement or disapproval
- A vote not in favor, or opposing a proposition
- An abstract entity used to describe quantity.
- A numeral: a symbol for a non-negative integer.
- An element of one of several sets: natural numbers, integers, rational numbers, real numbers, complex numbers, and sometimes extensions such as hypercomplex numbers, etc.
- (Followed by a numeral; used attributively) Indicating the position of something in a list or sequence. Abbreviations: No or No., no or no. (in each case, sometimes written with a superscript "o", like Nº or №). The symbol "#" is also used in this manner.
- Quantity.
- A sequence of digits and letters used to register people, automobiles, and various other items.
- A telephone number.
- (grammar) Of a word or phrase, the state of being singular, dual or plural, shown by inflection.
- (in the plural) Poetic metres; verses, rhymes.
- A performance; especially, a single song or song and dance routine within a larger show.
- A person.
- An item of clothing, particularly a stylish one.
- A marijuana cigarette, or joint; also, a quantity of marijuana bought form a dealer.
- An issue of a periodical publication.
- A large amount, in contrast to a smaller amount; numerical preponderance.