The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word PORTHOLE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
P
O
R
T
H
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More clues leading to the result PORTHOLE
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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 PORTHOLE mean?
PORTHOLE noun- A gunport; an opening in the hull of a ship through which cannon are fired.
- A circular window set in the hull of a ship.