Cryptic crossword clue
Shows respect for lethal weapons 9

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
R
O
S
S
B
O
W
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "lethal weapons" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case lethal weapons = crossbows.
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 CROSSBOWS mean?

CROSSBOWS noun
  1. A mechanised weapon, based on the bow and arrow, that shoots bolts.
  2. A portable ballista that can be held in the hand.

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