The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word MODES
M
O
D
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "forms" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case forms = modes.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 MODES mean?
MODES noun- One of several ancient Greek scales.
- One of several common scales in modern Western music, one of which corresponds to the modern major scale and one to the natural minor scale.
- A particular means of accomplishing something.
- A particular state of being, or frame of mind.
- The most frequently occurring value in a distribution
- A state of a system that is represented by an eigenfunction of that system.
- One of various related sets of rules for processing data; more generally, any state of the system associated with certain behaviours.
- A series of settings on a device used for a specific purpose.
- A variation in gameplay, such as a difficulty level.
- (grammar) A verb form that depends on how its containing clause relates to the speaker’s or writer’s wish, intent, or assertion about reality.
- That which exists only as a quality of substance.
- In lace-making, a small decorative piece inserted into a pattern.
- The openwork between the solid parts of a pattern.
- A woman's mantle with a hood.
- Style or fashion; popular trend.