Cryptic crossword clue
Since tail was operated, it's rigid 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 plus 1 letter word INELASTIC -

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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "rigid/" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case rigid/ = inelastic -.
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 INELASTIC - mean?

INELASTIC - adjective
  1. Lacking elasticity; inflexible, unyielding

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