Crossword Genius

Feeling ill-used, impoverished earl becomes naturally annoyed at first (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

indignant

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'annoyed at first' is the definition.
'indignant' can be an answer for 'annoyed' (I've seen this before). I'm unsure of the 'at first' bit.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for indignant that I've seen before include "Affronted by perceived injustice" , "Miffed" , "Somewhat outraged" , "somewhat angry" , "feeling anger" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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