Dim insider in tears messes up (5)
I believe the answer is:
ruins
This might be a double definition.
'dim insider in tears' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'messes up' is the second definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for ruins that I've seen before include "Broken-down remnants" , "Derelict buildings" , "Damaged remains (of building)" , "Wrecked buildings" , "dilapidated buildings" .)