The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word COPINGS
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Top layers" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case top layers = copings.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 COPINGS mean?
COPINGS noun- The top layer of a brick wall, especially one that slopes in order to throw off water.
- The process of managing taxing circumstances, expending effort to solve personal and interpersonal problems, and seeking to master, minimize, reduce or tolerate stress or conflict.
- Clipping the beak or talons of a bird.