The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word TOILS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
T
O
I
L
S
More clues leading to the result TOILS
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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 TOILS mean?
TOILS noun- Labour, work, especially of a grueling nature.
- Trouble, strife.
- (usually in plural) A net or snare; any thread, web, or string spread for taking prey.
- To labour; work.
- To struggle.
- To work (something); often with out.
- To weary through excessive labour.