Crossword Genius

American friend’s name rejected (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bud

'american friend's' is the definition.
(US term for friend)

'name rejected' is the wordplay.
'name' becomes 'dub' (as in dubbing someone with a particular name).
'rejected' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'dub' reversed gives 'BUD'.

(Other definitions for bud that I've seen before include "Unopened flower" , "It will eventually become a leaf or flower" , "American beer" , "Flower yet to open" , "Shoot, sprout" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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