The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word RIBCAGES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
R
I
B
C
A
G
E
S
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 RIBCAGES mean?
RIBCAGES noun- A part of the skeleton within the thoracic area consisting of ribs, sternum and thoracic vertebrae.
- The enclosed area created by and within the ribs.