Examine backward boy and gossip (7)
I believe the answer is:
scandal
'gossip' is the definition.
(I know that scandal is a type of gossip)
'examine backward boy' is the wordplay.
'examine' becomes 'scan' (scanning is a kind of examining).
'backward' says the letters should be written backwards.
'boy' becomes 'lad' (informal term for boy).
'lad' reversed gives 'dal'.
'scan'+'dal'='SCANDAL'
'and' is the link.
(Other definitions for scandal that I've seen before include "Disgraceful event" , "It injures reputation" , "Subject of Sheridan's school" , "Public outrage; gossip" , "Shocking disgrace" .)