The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word GRITTED
G
R
I
T
T
E
D
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "ground" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case ground = gritted.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 GRITTED mean?
GRITTED verb- Apparently only in grit one's teeth: to clench, particularly in reaction to pain or anger.
- To cover with grit.
- To give forth a grating sound, like sand under the feet; to grate; to grind.