Cryptic crossword clue
Whitewashes vessels crossing from side to side

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 plus 3 letter word COVER UPS

I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Whitewashes" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case whitewashes = cover ups.
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 COVER UPS mean?

COVER UPS noun
  1. An attempt to conceal or disguise something, especially a wrongdoing or a mistake.
  2. An item of clothing to be worn over a swimsuit while not in the water.

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