Cryptic crossword clue
Shy guards gather briefly, having a row 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SCULLING

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

The straight part
We know that "having a row" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case having a row = sculling.
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 SCULLING mean?

SCULLING verb
  1. To row a boat using a scull or sculls.
  2. To skate while keeping both feet in contact with the ground or ice.
SCULLING verb
  1. To drink the entire contents of (a drinking vessel) without pausing.

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