Cryptic crossword clue
Private last to run aboard navy helicopter 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SNEAKING

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Private" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case private = sneaking.
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 SNEAKING mean?

SNEAKING verb
  1. To creep or go stealthily; to come or go while trying to avoid detection, as a person who does not wish to be seen.
  2. To take something stealthily without permission.
  3. (ditransitive) To stealthily bring someone something.
  4. To hide, especially in a mean or cowardly manner.
  5. (with on) To inform an authority of another's misdemeanours.
SNEAKING noun
  1. The act of one who sneaks.
SNEAKING adjective
  1. Secret or underhand; not openly avowed.

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