The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word RIOTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
R
I
O
T
S
More clues leading to the result RIOTS
- One into cobblers’ small, dazzling displays
- Nothing will stop upcoming prison revolts
- Hoots from river, one owl primarily hollowed-out trees
- I sort out public disturbances
- One being imprisoned deteriorates — result is protests
- Stir trouble over nothing, causing commotions!
- Radical in our town sometimes heads demonstrations
- One among degenerates causing disturbances
- Public disturbances can be hugely fun occasions
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "protests" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case protests = riots.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 RIOTS mean?
RIOTS noun- Wanton or unrestrained behavior; uproar; tumult.
- The tumultuous disturbance of the public peace by an unlawful assembly of three or more persons in the execution of some private object.
- A wide and unconstrained variety.
- Excessive and expensive feasting; wild and loose festivity; revelry.
- To create or take part in a riot; to raise an uproar or sedition.
- To act in an unrestrained or wanton manner; to indulge in excess of feasting, luxury, etc.
- To cause to riot; to throw into a tumult.
- To annoy.