The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word APPOINTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
A
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More clues leading to the result APPOINTS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Selects" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case selects = appoints.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 APPOINTS mean?
APPOINTS verb- To set, fix or determine (a time or place for something such as a meeting, or the meeting itself) by authority or agreement.
- To name (someone to a post or role).
- To furnish or equip (a place) completely; to provide with all the equipment or furnishings necessary; to fit out.
- To equip (someone) with (something); to assign (someone) authoritatively (some equipment).
- To fix the disposition of (property) by designating someone to take use of (it).
- To fix with power or firmness by decree or command; to ordain or establish.
- To resolve; to determine; to ordain.