The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word AUSPICES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
A
U
S
P
I
C
E
S
More clues leading to the result AUSPICES
- Gold adds interest to patronage
- A refined group with intelligence receiving Conservative patronage
- Patronage of USA epics doubtful
- Patronage put life into Australia
- Patronage given by Australia holding mace, perhaps
- Signs of excitement in Australia
- An American without life support?
- Protection from season down under?
- Ace American full of zest offers patronage
- Signs of season in Australian states
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Signs" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case signs = auspices.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 AUSPICES mean?
AUSPICES noun- (chiefly in the plural) Patronage or protection.
- An omen or a sign.
- Divination from the actions of birds.