The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word DEFRAYS
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
D
E
F
R
A
Y
S
More clues leading to the result DEFRAYS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Settles" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case settles = defrays.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 DEFRAYS mean?
DEFRAYS verb- To spend (money).
- To pay or discharge (a debt, expense etc.); to meet (the cost of something).
- To pay for (something).