The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word CAVITIES
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "holes/holes" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case holes/holes = cavities.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 CAVITIES mean?
CAVITIES noun- A hole or hollow depression.
- A hollow area within the body (such as the sinuses).
- A small or large hole in a tooth caused by caries; often also a soft area adjacent to the hole also affected by caries.