The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word MOUE
M
O
U
E
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "grimace" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case grimace = moue.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 MOUE mean?
MOUE noun- A pout, especially as expressing mock-annoyance or flirtatiousness.