The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word CHIDE
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
C
H
I
D
E
More clues leading to the result CHIDE
- Lecture screen behind head in classroom
- Blame kept out of sight in church
- Rate fell below 100
- Slap on the wrist from backbench idealists
- It takes cold skin to lecture
- Lecture about skin
- Censure comic’s front cover
- Rebuke youngster, learner lacking energy
- Carpet made from skin by head of class
- Rebuke for being concealed in church
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Rate" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case rate = chide.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 CHIDE mean?
CHIDE verb- To admonish in blame; to reproach angrily.
- To utter words of disapprobation and displeasure; to find fault; to contend angrily.
- To make a clamorous noise; to chafe.