Does give a rap when one’s uncomplimentary about! (6)
I believe the answer is:
knocks
'does give' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with contact as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I can't see?
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for knocks that I've seen before include "Raps; criticises" , "Raps on the door" , "Bangs on door" , "Raps, taps" , "criticisms" .)