Crossword Genius

Ancient writer is keen to cut third stanza, offering nothing by way of replacement (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ovid

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'ancient writer' is the definition.
(Roman poet)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for ovid that I've seen before include "Roman poet, d. about AD17" , "Old linesman" , "Void for a Latin poet" , "Roman love poet" , "Classical poet" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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