The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word CONFORMER
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
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More clues leading to the result CONFORMER
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "follower" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case follower = conformer.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 CONFORMER mean?
CONFORMER noun- Any of a set of stereoisomers characterised by a conformation that corresponds to a distinct potential energy minimum.
- A particular folded state or conformation of a protein, especially an abnormal conformation of a prion
- A person who conforms; a conformist.
- A Conformist.