Cryptic crossword clue
Showing reluctance, northern monarch shoulders honorific Indian title 9

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

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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Showing reluctance" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case showing reluctance = shrinking.
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 SHRINKING mean?

SHRINKING verb
  1. To cause to become smaller.
  2. To become smaller; to contract.
  3. To cower or flinch.
  4. To draw back; to withdraw.
  5. To withdraw or retire, as from danger.
  6. To move back or away, especially because of fear or disgust.
SHRINKING noun
  1. The act of one who, or that which, shrinks; act of becoming smaller or moving timidly away.

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