The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word DESKTOP
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
D
E
S
K
T
O
P
More clues leading to the result DESKTOP
- Computer kept DOS running
- Daughter kept so untidy a work surface
- Computer depots arranged to stock a thousand
- Work surface close to cupboard, kept so poorly
- Sat around to receive equipment, missing one item for office
- Sort of publishing editor back, stuck on outside with chief
- Oddly, drew a little shrine; close to flock, highest screen displaying icons
- Sod kept changing computer screen
- With involvement of Kremlin head, despot hacked a PC
- Where papers may be posted – possibly about a thousand?
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Sort of publishing" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case sort of publishing = desktop.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 DESKTOP mean?
DESKTOP noun- The top surface of a desk.
- A desktop computer.
- The main graphical user interface of an operating system, usually displaying icons, windows and background wallpaper.
- Designed for use on a desk or similar piece of furniture.
- Of an application, designed to be run on a personal computer.