Crossword Genius

An ingrate, this rotter? (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rat

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

'this rotter?' is the definition.
('rat' can be a synonym of 'rotter')

'an ingrate' is the wordplay.
'RAT' is hidden within the letters.
However, I am unsure how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rat that I've seen before include "Betrayer" , "Renegade" , "Abandon" , "one who betrayed" , "Despicable person" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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