State hails masters (5)
I believe the answer is:
lords
'state hails masters' is the definition.
'lords' can be an answer for 'masters' ('lord' can be a synonym of 'master'). I am not certain of the 'state hails' bit.
'state hails masters' is the wordplay.
'state' becomes 'OR'.
'hails' becomes 'lds' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'masters' indicates putting letters inside (inserted letters are controlled or mastered).
'or' put inside 'lds' is 'LORDS'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for lords that I've seen before include "Field" , "Titled noblemen" , "masters" , "London sports ground" , "House - cricket ground" .)