The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word FAINTER
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
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More clues leading to the result FAINTER
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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 FAINTER mean?
FAINTER adjective- (of a being) Lacking strength; weak; languid; inclined to lose consciousness
- Lacking courage, spirit, or energy; cowardly; dejected
- Barely perceptible; not bright, or loud, or sharp
- Performed, done, or acted, weakly; not exhibiting vigor, strength, or energy
- Slight; minimal.
- One who faints.