Cryptic crossword clue
Grates start to rust on joints 7

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

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
R
A
N
K
L
E
S

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The straight part
We know that "Grates" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case grates = rankles.
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 RANKLES mean?

RANKLES verb
  1. To cause irritation or deep bitterness.
  2. To fester.

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