The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word SPERM
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
S
P
E
R
M
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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 SPERM mean?
SPERM noun- The reproductive cell or gamete of the male; a spermatozoon.
- Semen; the generative substance of male animals.
- Sperm oil; whale oil from a sperm whale; spermaceti.
- To ejaculate.
- To ejaculate on or into.