The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word RELATES
R
E
L
A
T
E
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "couples" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case couples = relates.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 RELATES mean?
RELATES verb- To tell in a descriptive way.
- To bring into a relation, association, or connection (between one thing and another).
- To have a connection.
- To interact.
- To respond through reaction.
- (with to) To identify with; to understand.
- To bring back; to restore.