The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word TUNING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
T
U
N
I
N
G
More clues leading to the result TUNING
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "What one could be doing with a pitch fork" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case what one could be doing with a pitch fork = tuning.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 TUNING mean?
TUNING verb- To adjust (a musical instrument) so that it produces the correct pitches.
- To adjust or modify (esp. a mechanical or electrical device) so that it functions optimally.
- To adjust the frequency on a radio or TV set, so as to receive the desired channel.
- (e.g. of senses or faculties) To adapt to or direct towards a particular target.
- To make more precise, intense, or effective; to put into a proper state or disposition.
- To attune; to adapt in style of music; to make harmonious.
- To give a certain tone or character to.
- To sing with melody or harmony.
- To cheek; to be impudent towards.
- Action of the verb to tune.