Crossword Genius

Tar wanting a cat, to whip (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

trounce

'to whip' is the definition.
('trounce' can be a synonym of 'whip')

'tar wanting a cat' is the wordplay.
'wanting' is a deletion indicator (to want something can mean to lack it or need it).
'cat' becomes 'ounce' (ounce can mean a snow leopard).
'tar' with 'a' taken away is 'tr'.
'tr'+'ounce'='TROUNCE'

(Other definitions for trounce that I've seen before include "Defeat by large margin" , "Wallop" , "Defeat decisively" , "Beat thoroughly on recount" , "Beat badly in recount" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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