The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word SCRAPED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
S
C
R
A
P
E
D
More clues leading to the result SCRAPED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Had a close shave" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case had a close shave = scraped.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 SCRAPED mean?
SCRAPED verb- To draw (an object, especially a sharp or angular one), along (something) while exerting pressure.
- To remove (something) by drawing an object along in this manner.
- To injure or damage by rubbing across a surface.
- To barely manage to achieve.
- To collect or gather, especially without regard to the quality of what is chosen.
- To extract data by automated means from a format not intended to be machine-readable, such as a screenshot or a formatted web page.
- To occupy oneself with getting laboriously.
- To play awkwardly and inharmoniously on a violin or similar instrument.
- To draw back the right foot along the ground or floor when making a bow.
- To express disapprobation of (a play, etc.) or to silence (a speaker) by drawing the feet back and forth upon the floor; usually with down.