The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word POUNCED
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
P
O
U
N
C
E
D
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Attacked" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case attacked = pounced.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 POUNCED mean?
POUNCED verb- To sprinkle or rub with pounce powder.
- To leap into the air intending to seize someone or something.
- To attack suddenly by leaping.
- To eagerly seize an opportunity.
- To strike or seize with the talons; to pierce, as with the talons.
- To stamp holes in; to perforate.
- Furnished with claws or talons.
- Ornamented with perforations or dots.