The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word FLAYED
F
L
A
Y
E
D
More clues leading to the result FLAYED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "subjected to severe criticism" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case subjected to severe criticism = flayed.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 FLAYED mean?
FLAYED verb- To cause to fly; put to flight; drive off (by frightening).
- To frighten; scare; terrify.
- To be fear-stricken.
- To strip skin off
- To lash