The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SEMANTIC
S
E
M
A
N
T
I
C
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "relating to meanings of words" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case relating to meanings of words = semantic.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 SEMANTIC mean?
SEMANTIC noun- In such writing systems as the Chinese writing system, the portion of a phono-semantic character that provides an indication of its meaning; contrasted with phonetic.
- Of or relating to semantics or the meanings of words.
- (software design, of code) Reflecting intended structure and meaning.
- (of a detail or distinction) Petty or trivial; (of a person or statement) quibbling, niggling.