Always less than cheerful (3)

I believe the answer is:

eer

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

(Other definitions for eer that I've seen before include "Before, poetically speaking (1'2)" , "Ever to the poet (3)." , "Always (poetical)" , "Always (poetic)" , "Ever poetically" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.