The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word BRUISES
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
B
R
U
I
S
E
S
More clues leading to the result BRUISES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "pounds" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case pounds = bruises.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 BRUISES mean?
BRUISES noun- A purplish mark on the skin due to leakage of blood from capillaries under the surface that have been damaged by a blow.
- A dark mark on fruit or vegetables caused by a blow to the surface.
- To strike (a person), originally with something flat or heavy, but now specifically in such a way as to discolour the skin without breaking it.
- To damage the skin of (fruit or vegetables), in an analogous way.
- Of fruit or vegetables, to gain bruises through being handled roughly.
- To become bruised.
- To fight with the fists; to box.