Abdul lingered a little, becoming less bright (7)

I believe the answer is:

dulling

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'less bright' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'abdul lingered a little' is the wordplay.
'a little' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'DULLING' can be found hidden inside 'abdul lingered'.

'becoming' acts as a link.

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I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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