The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word LOYALIST
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
L
O
Y
A
L
I
S
T
More clues leading to the result LOYALIST
- One true to a cause, supporter of monarchy having changed sides initially
- No republican initially changing sides? He won't
- Awfully silly to a true friend?
- Converted to ally, is steadfast supporter
- See Italy’s changing, supporting the government
- See unknown character of celebrity status who gives unstinting support
- Alternative to ally is supporter of ruler
- Stalwart Cavalier having changed sides at the outset
- Behold Italy’s new supporter of the government in power
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Stalwart" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case stalwart = loyalist.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 LOYALIST mean?
LOYALIST noun- A person who is loyal to a cause, generally used as a political affiliation.