| FOREMOST | Leading or best (8) |
| ROSETTES | Colourful satin prizes awarded at dog/horse shows and country fairs for winning classes such as best in show, clear round or best turned-out (8) |
| SCENARIO | Eg worst case or best case - or possibly iron case? (8) |
| BLEAKEST | Worst or best concealing security breach. (8) |
| TOPSCORE | The leading twenty, or best of eleven |
| GREATEST | Biggest or best (8) |
| BLESSING | From "blood", a word for an act of consecrating, hallowing or marking with said vital fluid first, now a prayer invoking protection; grace before supper; a gift from God; official approval or best wis |
| THUMBSUP | A sign with the hand indicating approval or best wishes for success (6,2) |
| CONDUCT | To direct the performance and tempo of an orchestra or a choir; the act of guiding, leading or managing generally; or, the manner in which one behaves or comports oneself (7) |
| PRIMO | First course of a formal Italian meal following antipasti; or, the leading or principal part in a duet (5) |
| EDGE | Word after leading or cutting |
| MIS | Prefix for leading or matched |
| LADY | Word after leading or cleaning |
| HALTER | Rope for leading or holding an animal (6) |
| ROLE | One may be leading or supporting |
| CONDUCIVE | Leading or tending |
| ESPY | Best Upset, Best Play, or Best Game |
| CREAM | Butterfat in milk, traditionally eaten as an accompaniment to puddings; its off-white or pale-yellow colour; or, the choice or best part (5) |
| SPY | Best Bowler or Best WWE Moment, e.g. |
| HIGHLIGHTS | Most memorable or exciting moments; or, best parts of an event, edited for broadcasting (10) |
