The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word POUNDAGE
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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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 POUNDAGE mean?
POUNDAGE noun- A charge based on the weight of something in pounds
- A charge based on the value of something in pounds sterling
- A weight measured in pounds
- A fee charged for keeping an animal in a pound, or for its release
- The keeping of an animal in a pound
- To collect, as poundage; to assess, or rate, by poundage.