The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word REFORMED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
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More clues leading to the result REFORMED
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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 REFORMED mean?
REFORMED verb- To put into a new and improved form or condition; to restore to a former good state, or bring from bad to good; to change from worse to better
- To return to a good state; to amend or correct one's own character or habits
- To form again or in a new configuration.
- Corrected; amended; restored to purity or excellence; said, specifically, of the whole body of Protestant churches originating in the Reformation, or, in a more restricted sense, of those who separated from Martin Luther on the doctrine of consubstantiation, etc., and carried the Reformation, as they claimed, to a higher point.
- Amended in character and life.
- (of an officer) Retained in service on half or full pay after the disbandment of the company or troop.