The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word COMEBACKS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
O
M
E
B
A
C
K
S
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 COMEBACKS mean?
COMEBACKS noun- A return (e.g. to popularity, success, etc.) after an extended period of obscurity.
- A retort or answer, particularly a quick or clever one.
- An occurrence of an athlete or sports team in a competition overcoming a substantial disadvantage in points to win or draw.