Answers the rotters somehow (7)
I believe the answer is:
retorts
'answers' is the definition.
(I know this)
'rotters somehow' is the wordplay.
'somehow' indicates an anagram.
'rotters' with letters rearranged gives 'RETORTS'.
'the' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for retorts that I've seen before include "Sharp replies or rejoinders" , "Makes witty or angry reply" , "laboratory equipment" , "Counters" .)