The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ECHELONS
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More clues leading to the result ECHELONS
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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 ECHELONS mean?
ECHELONS noun- A level or rank in an organization, profession, or society.
- A line of riders seeking maximum drafting in a crosswind, resulting in a diagonal line across the road.
- A formation of troops, ships, etc., in diagonal parallel rows.