The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word BACKBITE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
B
A
C
K
B
I
T
E
More clues leading to the result BACKBITE
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Talk spitefully about" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case talk spitefully about = backbite.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 BACKBITE mean?
BACKBITE noun- One who engages in backbiting; a backbiter.
- To make spiteful slanderous or defamatory statements about someone.
- To attack from behind or when out of earshot with spiteful or defamatory remarks.
- To speak badly of an absent individual.