Cryptic crossword clue
Not above taking in hand material to ensure one’s pile lasts longer 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word UNDERFELT

I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
U
N
D
E
R
F
E
L
T

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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 UNDERFELT mean?

UNDERFELT verb
  1. To secretly gain knowledge from.
  2. To feel inadequately or to a lesser degree than expected.
UNDERFELT noun
  1. A layer of felt-like material laid underneath a wall-to-wall carpet

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