The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word PILLORY
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
P
I
L
L
O
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More clues leading to the result PILLORY
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Ridicule" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case ridicule = pillory.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 PILLORY mean?
PILLORY noun- A framework on a post, with holes for the hands and head, used as a means of punishment and humiliation.
- To put in a pillory.
- To subject to humiliation, scorn, ridicule or abuse.
- To criticize harshly.