The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word BRAKEMAN
B
R
A
K
E
M
A
N
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The straight part
We know that "railway worker" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case railway worker = brakeman.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 BRAKEMAN mean?
BRAKEMAN noun- A railroad employee responsible for a train's brakes, couplings etc.
- A person employed to work the steam engine or other machinery that raises the coal from the mine.
- A person who pulls the brake lever in the sport of bobsleigh.