Clubs in which performers of awful acts may be clapped (5)
I believe the answer is:
irons
This clue might be a double definition.
'clubs' is the first definition.
(I know this)
'in which performers of awful acts may be clapped' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how one could define the other.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for irons that I've seen before include "for old convict to wear" , "Prepares clothes" , "Smooths clothes" , "things for an evening out" , "Don't have too many in the fire at the same time" .)