Cryptic crossword clue
Begins losing heart to boxer’s attacks with words … 7

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word OPPUGNS

O
P
P
U
G
N
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "attacks with words" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case attacks with words = oppugns.
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 OPPUGNS mean?

OPPUGNS verb
  1. To contradict or controvert; to oppose; to challenge or question the truth or validity of a given statement.

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