The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word UNDINES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
U
N
D
I
N
E
S
More clues leading to the result UNDINES
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Nymphs" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case nymphs = undines.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 UNDINES mean?
UNDINES noun- A female water-sprite or nymph.
- The elemental being of water.
- A small flask used to apply lotions to the eye.