The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word TARMACKED
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
T
A
R
M
A
C
K
E
D
More clues leading to the result TARMACKED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "this" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case this = tarmacked.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 TARMACKED mean?
TARMACKED verb- To pave with tarmacadam or a similar material.
- To spend time idling on a runway, usually waiting for takeoff clearance.