The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word CREEK
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
C
R
E
E
K
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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 CREEK mean?
CREEK noun- A small inlet or bay, often saltwater, narrower and extending farther into the land than a cove; a recess in the shore of the sea, or of a river; the inner part of a port that is used as a dock for small boats.
- A stream of water (often freshwater) smaller than a river and larger than a brook.
- Any turn or winding.