The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word KEELSON
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
K
E
E
L
S
O
N
More clues leading to the result KEELSON
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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 KEELSON mean?
KEELSON noun- A longitudinal beam fastened on top of the keel of a vessel for strength and stiffness.