Went easy on (6)
I believe the answer is:
spared
'went easy on' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for spared that I've seen before include "Refrained from hurting, was merciful towards" , "did without" , "forgiven" , "Unharmed" , "Showed mercy, refrained from hurting" .)