The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word ROVER
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
R
O
V
E
R
More clues leading to the result ROVER
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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 ROVER mean?
ROVER noun- (usually in the plural) A randomly selected target.
- One who roves, a wanderer, a nomad.
- A vagabond, a tramp, an unsteady, restless person, one who by habit doesn't settle down or marry.
- A vehicle for exploring extraterrestrial bodies.
- (Australian Rules football) A position that is one of three of a team's followers, who follow the ball around the ground. Formerly a position for short players, rovers in professional leagues are frequently over 183 cm (6').
- A defensive back position whose coverage responsibilities are a hybrid of those of a cornerback, safety and linebacker.
- A ball which has passed through all the hoops and would go out if it hit the stake but is continued in play; also, the player of such a ball.
- The tenth defensive player in slow-pitch softball.
- A sort of arrow.
- A pirate.
- A pirate ship.