Cryptic crossword clue
Pals protect one beginning to defy bullies

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 11 letter word INTIMIDATES

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
I
N
T
I
M
I
D
A
T
E
S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "bullies" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case bullies = intimidates.
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.

Crossword Answer definitions

INTIMIDATES verb
  1. To make timid or afraid; to cause to feel fear or nervousness; to deter, especially by threats of violence

Latest crossword clues with full explanations