The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word RECLAIMED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
R
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More clues leading to the result RECLAIMED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "took back" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case took back = reclaimed.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 RECLAIMED mean?
RECLAIMED verb- To return land to a suitable condition for use.
- To obtain useful products from waste; to recycle.
- To claim something back; to repossess.
- To return someone to a proper course of action, or correct an error; to reform.
- To tame or domesticate a wild animal.
- To call back from flight or disorderly action; to call to, for the purpose of subduing or quieting.
- To cry out in opposition or contradiction; to exclaim against anything; to contradict; to take exceptions.
- To draw back; to give way.
- To appeal from the Lord Ordinary to the inner house of the Court of Session.
- Having been reclaimed.