The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word STABBING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
S
T
A
B
B
I
N
G
More clues leading to the result STABBING
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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 STABBING mean?
STABBING verb- To pierce or to wound (somebody) with a pointed tool or weapon, especially a knife or dagger.
- To thrust in a stabbing motion.
- To recklessly hit with the tip of a pointed object, such as a weapon or finger (often used with at).
- To cause a sharp, painful sensation (often used with at).
- To injure secretly or by malicious falsehood or slander.
- To roughen a brick wall with a pick so as to hold plaster.
- To pierce folded sheets, near their back edges, for the passage of thread or wire.
- An incident in which a person is stabbed.
- (of pain) Sharp, intense.