Cryptic crossword clue
Terrible failures that could make celeb sad 8

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
D
E
B
A
C
L
E
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Terrible failures" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case terrible failures = debacles.
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 DEBACLES mean?

DEBACLES noun
  1. An event or enterprise that ends suddenly and disastrously, often with humiliating consequences.
  2. A breaking up of a natural dam, usually made of ice, by a river and the ensuing rush of water.

Latest crossword clues with full explanations