Puts a hand out for a handout? (4)

I believe the answer is:

begs

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'puts' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with communicating as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for begs that I've seen before include "Entreats" , "Beseeches" , "Pleads" , "Sponges" , "Implores" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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