Cryptic crossword clue
Tabloid covers mad Zaire overlord 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SUZERAIN

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
U
Z
E
R
A
I
N

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The straight part
We know that "overlord" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case overlord = suzerain.
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 SUZERAIN mean?

SUZERAIN noun
  1. A dominant nation or state that has control over the international affairs of a subservient state which otherwise has domestic autonomy.
  2. A feudal landowner to whom vassals were forced to pledge allegiance.

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