The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word RETCHED
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
R
E
T
C
H
E
D
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "gagged" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case gagged = retched.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 RETCHED mean?
RETCHED verb- To make an unsuccessful effort to vomit; to strain, as in vomiting.
- To reck
- To reach