Cryptic crossword clue
Out of shape, seeking familiar place — working out 9

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
F
A
T
H
O
M
I
N
G

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "working out" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case working out = fathoming.
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 FATHOMING mean?

FATHOMING verb
  1. To encircle with outstretched arms, especially to take a measurement; to embrace.
  2. To measure the depth of, take a sounding of.
  3. To get to the bottom of; to manage to comprehend; understand (a problem etc.).

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