The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word FINISHES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
F
I
N
I
S
H
E
S
More clues leading to the result FINISHES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Stops" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case stops = finishes.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 FINISHES mean?
FINISHES noun- An end; the end of anything.
- A protective coating given to wood or metal and other surfaces.
- The result of any process changing the physical or chemical properties of cloth.
- A finishing touch; careful elaboration; polish.
- A shot on goal, especially one that ends in a goal.
- To complete (something).
- To apply a treatment to (a surface or similar).
- To change an animal's food supply in the months before it is due for slaughter, with the intention of fattening the animal.
- To come to an end.
- To put an end to; to destroy.