The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word HUMBLES
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
H
U
M
B
L
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S
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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 HUMBLES mean?
HUMBLES noun- (Baltimore) An arrest based on weak evidence intended to demean or punish the subject.
- To defeat or reduce the power, independence, or pride of
- To make humble or lowly; to make less proud or arrogant; to make meek and submissive.
- A stag that has failed to grow antlers; a cow that has not developed horns.
- Especially in hummel corn: grain that lacks awns (beards or bristles), or has had its awns removed (barley, oats, etc.).
- Of an animal: to remove the horns; to poll.
- To separate (barley, oats, etc.) from the awns.
- Entrails of a deer.