Cryptic crossword clue
Shielding with no answer must be offensive 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word INSULTING

I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "offensive" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case offensive = insulting.
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 INSULTING mean?

INSULTING verb
  1. To be insensitive, insolent, or rude to (somebody); to affront or demean (someone).
  2. To assail, assault, or attack; (specifically) to carry out an assault, attack, or onset without preparation.
  3. To behave in an obnoxious and superior manner (against or over someone).
  4. To leap or trample upon.
INSULTING noun
  1. The act of giving insult.
INSULTING adjective
  1. Containing insult, or having the intention of insulting.

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