Said they can tolerate being exposed (4)

I believe the answer is:

bare

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'being exposed' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for bare that I've seen before include "Nude; uncover" , "Unclothed or unadorned" , "State of deciduous tree in winter" , "Expose" , "Denuded" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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