Crossword Genius

Alan in times past showing poise (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

balance

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'poise' is the definition.
(I know that poise can be written as balance)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for balance that I've seen before include "Surplus" , "Weighing device" , "Sign" , "Equipoise" , "emotional stability" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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