The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word FOXTROTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
F
O
X
T
R
O
T
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "measures" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case measures = foxtrots.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 FOXTROTS mean?
FOXTROTS noun- A ballroom dance with a slow-slow-quick-quick rhythm.
- A pace with short steps, as in changing from trotting to walking.
- The letter F in the ICAO spelling alphabet.
- To dance the foxtrot.