The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word WASTERS
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
W
A
S
T
E
R
S
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 WASTERS mean?
WASTERS noun- Someone or something that wastes; someone who squanders or spends extravagantly.
- An imperfection in the wick of a candle, causing it to waste.
- A destroyer.
- An item that is spoiled during its manufacture.
- A kind of cudgel; also, a blunt-edged sword used as a foil.
- A leister; a spear for catching fish.