Cryptic crossword clue
Supports corset-wearing graduate 9

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word MAINSTAYS

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
M
A
I
N
S
T
A
Y
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Supports" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case supports = mainstays.
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 MAINSTAYS mean?

MAINSTAYS noun
  1. A chief support.
  2. Someone or something that can be depended on to make a regular contribution.
  3. A stabilising rope from the top of the mainmast to the bottom of the foremast.

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