The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word HETAERAE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
H
E
T
A
E
R
A
E
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 HETAERAE mean?
HETAERAE noun- A highly cultivated hired female companion who would entertain upper-class male clients and might perform sex acts for them.
- A mistress.