Uses blackmail - then tears may result (9)
I believe the answer is:
threatens
'uses blackmail' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their -s form, I don't understand how one could define the other.
'then tears may result' is the wordplay.
'then tears' anagrams to 'THREATENS'.
Though, I am not clear how the anagram is indicated.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for threatens that I've seen before include "Puts at risk" , "Utters intention to injure" , "Uses verbal intimidation for purpose of 34 Across" , "Intimidates with intention to harm" , "Utters intentions to injure" .)