What does the cryptic crossword clue "Beat friend hollow and scoffed (9)" mean?

The definition is "Beat". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). PAL (synonym of "friend") + PIT (synonym of "hollow") + ATE (synonym of "scoffed"); definition: "Beat" The answer is PALPITATE.

Beat friend hollow and scoffed (9)

Guardian Cryptic #25233 | 14 Across | 2011-01-31 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Guardian's puzzle site →

Also seen in

Independent Cryptic #11995 (2025-03-20)