The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word BOOKEND
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
B
O
O
K
E
N
D
More clues leading to the result BOOKEND
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "support" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case support = bookend.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 BOOKEND mean?
BOOKEND noun- A heavy object or moveable support placed at one or both ends of a row of books for the purpose of keeping them upright.
- Something that comes before, after, or at both sides of something else.
- To come before and after, or at both sides of.