The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word FLEECED
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "taken to the cleaners" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case taken to the cleaners = fleeced.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 FLEECED mean?
FLEECED verb- To con or trick (someone) out of money.
- To shear the fleece from (a sheep or other animal).
- To cover with, or as if with, wool.
- Having a fleece.