What does the cryptic crossword clue "Appear in court, and stare at the ceiling (4,2)" mean?

The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). LOOK (synonym="appear") + UP (synonym="in court") = LOOKUP The answer is LOOKUP.

Appear in court, and stare at the ceiling (4,2)

Guardian Cryptic #29543 | 4 Across | 2024-11-18 flower