What does the cryptic crossword clue "… almost grasp buttocks, controlling bodies (7)" mean?

The definition is "controlling bodies". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). SE (synonym="e") + NATES (synonym=""buttocks"") = SENATES; definition: "controlling bodies" The answer is SENATES.

… almost grasp buttocks, controlling bodies (7)

Guardian Cryptic #29096 | 27 Across | 2023-06-14 flower

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