The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word LITERATI
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
L
I
T
E
R
A
T
I
More clues leading to the result LITERATI
- Scholars of retail worked to bring in computers
- Some mathematical iterations, they ought to be learned
- Large copy, mostly one for regular readers?
- Low-fat starter of radish around lunchtime for the discerning
- Volume of Poe needs a note for scholarly readers
- The learned elite rationalise to an extent
- . Characters making extensive use of alliteration?
- Latin repetition not working for bookworms
- Writers etc left copy that’s not acceptable
- Top select group, one defending art, perhaps
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Top select group, one defending art, perhaps" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case top select group, one defending art, perhaps = literati.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 LITERATI mean?
LITERATI noun- Well-educated, literary people; intellectuals who are interested in literature.