The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word TRUDGING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
T
R
U
D
G
I
N
G
Buddy explains!
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 TRUDGING mean?
TRUDGING verb- To walk wearily with heavy, slow steps.
- To trudge along or over a route etc.
- The act of one who trudges, or walks slowly and heavily.