Clapped around circuit (3)
I believe the answer is:
lap
'circuit' is the definition.
(synonyms)
'clapped around' is the wordplay.
'around' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'LAP' is hidden within 'clapped'.
(Other definitions for lap that I've seen before include "Sports circuit" , "place for small computer?" , "Thighs, when seated" , "Single circuit of track" , "revolution" .)