The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word PRECEDENTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
P
R
E
C
E
D
E
N
T
S
More clues leading to the result PRECEDENTS
Buddy explains!
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 PRECEDENTS mean?
PRECEDENTS noun- An act in the past which may be used as an example to help decide the outcome of similar instances in the future.
- A decided case which is cited or used as an example to justify a judgment in a subsequent case.
- An established habit or custom.
- (with definite article) The aforementioned (thing).
- The previous version.
- A rough draught of a writing which precedes a finished copy.
- To provide precedents for.
- To be a precedent for.