The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word COMPASS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
C
O
M
P
A
S
S
More clues leading to the result COMPASS
- Commander Mike to hand over navigational device
- On a ship, comprehensive direction-finder
- Instrument made by halfwit attending secondary school
- News reader?
- Range using R for direction
- This may have a bearing on one’s progress
- Something providing direction and order during Conservative predicament
- Reach mountain path after brief search
- One offering news in separate bits!
- Company progress should include medium range
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "direction-finder" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case direction-finder = compass.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 COMPASS mean?
COMPASS noun- A magnetic or electronic device used to determine the cardinal directions (usually magnetic or true north).
- A pair of compasses (a device used to draw an arc or circle).
- The range of notes of a musical instrument or voice.
- A space within limits; an area.
- An enclosing limit; a boundary, a circumference.
- Moderate bounds, limits of truth; moderation; due limits; used with within.
- Scope.
- A passing round; circuit; circuitous course.
- To surround; to encircle; to environ; to stretch round.
- To go about or round entirely; to traverse.
- To accomplish; to reach; to achieve; to obtain.
- To plot; to scheme (against someone).
- In a circuit; round about.