The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word FOREPLAY
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
F
O
R
E
P
L
A
Y
More clues leading to the result FOREPLAY
- Wrap frayed rope in skin — it makes it last longer
- Rope twisted into whip for slap and tickle?
- Sally to take in top football competition? That’s just the start of it!
- Bit of fun with possible role to impress partner, initially — later a 23 26?
- What goes ahead of the act in favour of Oriental pal tired at end of day
- It creates excitement on behalf of online work
- Stimulation throughout online performance?
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "slap and tickle" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case slap and tickle = foreplay.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 FOREPLAY mean?
FOREPLAY noun- In human sexual behavior, the acts at the beginning of a sexual encounter that serve to build up sexual arousal.
- To engage in foreplay.