The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 letter word ALA
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
A
L
A
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 ALA mean?
ALA noun- A wing or winglike structure.
- A winglike anatomical process or part, especially of bone.
- The flattened border of some stems, fruits, and seeds, or one of the two side petals of certain flowers in the pea family.
- In ancient Rome, a small room opening into a larger room or courtyard.
- In the style or manner of.