Crossword Genius

Apprehension to prosecute former poet after repeated cuts (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

suspense

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

'apprehension' is the definition.
(I know that suspense is a type of apprehension)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for suspense that I've seen before include "Tense uncertainty" , "State of uncertainty or excitement" , "feature of exciting fiction?" , "State of anxiety or excitement" , "State of anxious uncertainty while waiting (8)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app