The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word MEANDERED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
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More clues leading to the result MEANDERED
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 MEANDERED mean?
MEANDERED verb- To wind or turn in a course or passage; to be intricate.
- To wind, turn, or twist; to make flexuous.