The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word LUFF
L
U
F
F
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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 LUFF mean?
LUFF noun- The vertical edge of a sail that is closest to the direction of the wind.
- The act of sailing a ship close to the wind.
- The roundest part of a ship's bow.
- The forward or weather leech of a sail, especially of the jib, spanker, and other fore-and-aft sails.
- (of a sail) To shake due to being trimmed improperly.
- (of a boat) To alter course to windward so that the sails luff. (Alternatively luff up)
- To let out (a sail) so that it luffs.
- To alter the vertical angle of the jib of a crane so as to bring it level with the load.