The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word COYER
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
O
Y
E
R
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 COYER mean?
COYER adjective- Bashful, shy, retiring.
- Quiet, reserved, modest.
- Reluctant to give details about something sensitive; notably prudish.
- Pretending shyness or modesty, especially in an insincere or flirtatious way.
- Soft, gentle, hesitating.