Crossword Genius

About time they put it out (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

emit

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

'they put it out' is the definition.
The definition suggests an adverb but the answer is not.

'about time' is the wordplay.
'about' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'time' in reverse letter order is 'EMIT'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for emit that I've seen before include "Make audible sounds" , "'Give out, light say (4)'" , "'Give off, odour say (4)'" , "Produce and discharge" , "Give out (eg light)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app