Crossword Genius

Verbally, a little hoarse? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

foal

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'verbally a little hoarse?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'verbally a little' is the wordplay.
'verbally' becomes 'fo' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'little' becomes 'l' (abbreviation).
'fo'+'a'+'l'='FOAL'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for foal that I've seen is " A young horse for Olaf".)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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