The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word LAKER
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
L
A
K
E
R
More clues leading to the result LAKER
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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 LAKER mean?
LAKER noun- One engaged in sport; a player; an actor.
- A wharfman who resides near a lake.
- A ship used on the Great Lakes.