The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word SMOCK
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
M
O
C
K
More clues leading to the result SMOCK
- Protective garment some initially make fun of
- Loose garment some initially laugh at
- Small rag garment
- Male in basic footwear, artist's attire
- Ultimate in tasteless ridicule, overall
- Maiden appearing in one garment or another
- Laughs at bottom rising in article of clothing
- Society to make fun of countryman’s attire?
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "overall" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case overall = smock.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 SMOCK mean?
SMOCK noun- A type of undergarment worn by women; a shift or slip.
- A blouse; a smock frock.
- A loose garment worn as protection by a painter, etc.
- To provide with, or clothe in, a smock or a smock frock.
- To apply smocking.
- Of or pertaining to a smock; resembling a smock
- Hence, of or pertaining to a woman.