The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word FINISHING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
F
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More clues leading to the result FINISHING
Buddy explains!

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 FINISHING mean?
FINISHING verb- To complete (something).
- To apply a treatment to (a surface or similar).
- To change an animal's food supply in the months before it is due for slaughter, with the intention of fattening the animal.
- To come to an end.
- To put an end to; to destroy.
- The act of completing something.
- Shooting ability.
- The final work upon or ornamentation of a thing; finish.