The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word ERASE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
E
R
A
S
E
More clues leading to the result ERASE
- Delete Times puzzle at the end
- Do away with Times editorial’s introduction
- First of editors on the Times to make history?
- Cross out times table, finally
- Remove Times puzzle, finally
- Times with article finally to obliterate
- Blank out needing peace? That's about right
- Remove some platter, as empty
- Obliterate resistance encountered in facility
- Rub out mobster as enemy to some extent
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "obliterate" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case obliterate = erase.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 ERASE mean?
ERASE noun- The operation of deleting data.
- To remove markings or information
- To obliterate information from (a storage medium), such as to clear or (with magnetic storage) to demagnetize.
- To obliterate (information) from a storage medium, such as to clear or to overwrite.
- To remove a runner from the bases via a double play or pick off play
- To be erased (have markings removed, have information removed or be cleared of information).
- To disregard (a group, an orientation, etc.); to prevent from having an active role in society.
- To kill; assassinate.