The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word CONJURORS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "magicians" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case magicians = conjurors.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 CONJURORS mean?
CONJURORS noun- One who conjures, a magician.
- One who performs parlor tricks, sleight of hand.
- One who conjures; one who calls, entreats, or charges in a solemn manner.
- One who conjectures shrewdly or judges wisely; a man of sagacity.
- A cooking appliance comprising a pot (large or small) with a gridiron wielded beneath it, like a brazier, used for cooking methods such as broiling.
- One bound by a common oath with others.