The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word SURGE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
U
R
G
E
More clues leading to the result SURGE
- Swell certainly to consume gallons
- Swell of waves certain to involve gallons
- Huge wave from theatre professional, on leaving
- Certain about good rise
- Rolling swell certain to engulf stern of brig
- Certain to welcome good increase
- Small egg on roll
- Swell guy in theatre not performing
- Sons press for big increase
- 'Swell' certainly describes 'good'
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Rolling swell" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case rolling swell = surge.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 SURGE mean?
SURGE noun- A sudden transient rush, flood or increase.
- The maximum amplitude of a vehicle's forward/backward oscillation
- A sudden electrical spike or increase of voltage and current.
- The swell or heave of the sea. (FM 55-501).
- A spring; a fountain.
- The tapered part of a windlass barrel or a capstan, upon which the cable surges, or slips.
- To rush, flood, or increase suddenly.
- To accelerate forwards, particularly suddenly.
- To slack off a line.