Cryptic crossword clue
Conservative admitted to being pleased with defeat 7

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

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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "defeat" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case defeat = licking.
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 LICKING mean?

LICKING verb
  1. To stroke with the tongue.
  2. To lap; to take in with the tongue.
  3. To beat with repeated blows.
  4. To defeat decisively, particularly in a fight.
  5. To overcome.
  6. To perform cunnilingus.
  7. To do anything partially.
  8. (of flame, waves etc.) To lap.
LICKING noun
  1. An act of licking.
  2. A severe beating.
  3. A great loss or defeat.

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