The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word CLUTCHES
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Tightly holds/groups of eggs" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case tightly holds/groups of eggs = clutches.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 CLUTCHES mean?
CLUTCHES noun- The claw of a predatory animal or bird.
- (by extension) A grip, especially one seen as rapacious or evil.
- A device to interrupt power transmission, commonly used to separate the engine and gearbox in a car.
- The pedal in a car that disengages power and torque transmission from the engine (through the drivetrain) to the drive wheels.
- Any device for gripping an object, as at the end of a chain or tackle.
- A small handbag or purse with no straps or handle.
- To seize, as though with claws.
- To grip or grasp tightly.
- A brood of chickens or a sitting of eggs.
- A group or bunch (of people or things).
- To hatch.
- An important or critical situation.