They keep taking what they need (7)
I believe the answer is:
addicts
'they' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for addicts that I've seen before include "Junkies" , "Habitual drug users" , "People with compulsive ailments as for drugs" , "People who are hooked" .)