Whip messing up recount (7)

I believe the answer is:

trounce

'whip' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'messing up recount' is the wordplay.
'messing up' indicates an anagram (I've seen 'messed up' mean this).
'recount' anagrammed gives 'TROUNCE'.

(Other definitions for trounce that I've seen before include "Destroy" , "Beat thoroughly on recount" , "Defeat heavily in recount" , "Lick" , "Aged skip" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.