The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word RETIRING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
R
E
T
I
R
I
N
G
More clues leading to the result RETIRING
- Leaving job, being shy
- Shy going to bed
- Lacking confidence, / heading for the bedroom?
- Private leaving the field hurt?
- Quiet when going to bed
- Quiet going upstairs?
- Quiet soldier’s getting worn out
- Giving up work soldier finds arduous
- With reference to one call following close of coconut shy
- Finally, Amateur Theatre ticket — one near circle — reserved
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Private/leaving the field hurt" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case private/leaving the field hurt = retiring.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 RETIRING mean?
RETIRING verb- To stop working on a permanent basis, usually because of old age or illness.
- (sometimes reflexive) To withdraw; to take away.
- To cease use or production of something.
- To withdraw from circulation, or from the market; to take up and pay.
- To cause to retire; specifically, to designate as no longer qualified for active service; to place on the retired list.
- (of a batsman) To voluntarily stop batting before being dismissed so that the next batsman can bat.
- (of a fielder) To make a play which results in a runner or the batter being out, either by means of a put out, fly out or strikeout.
- To go back or return; to withdraw or retreat, especially from public view; to go into privacy.
- To retreat from action or danger; to withdraw for safety or pleasure.
- To recede; to fall or bend back.
- To go to bed.
- To remove or cease to use.
- To fit (a vehicle) with new tires.
- Retirement
- Introverted, liking privacy and seclusion.