The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word EXCORIATE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
E
X
C
O
R
I
A
T
E
More clues leading to the result EXCORIATE
- Slam former partner consumed by TV soap, so to speak?
- Former partner with company, one brought in to evaluate and criticise
- English No 10 I had put on my strip
- Disparage old flame? My one scoffed
- Savage old lover appearing with naughty erotica
- Strongly criticise erotica produced by former partner
- Upset, or excite, a run down severely
- Severely criticise former officer, one breaking rank
- Severely criticise corrupt exec taking 18 out
- Former partner and I worried about my skin
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "run down severely" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case run down severely = excoriate.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 EXCORIATE mean?
EXCORIATE verb- To wear off the skin of; to chafe or flay.
- To strongly denounce or censure.