Crossword Genius

Approval denied, it appears, for refuge (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nook

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

'for refuge' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

'approval denied it' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'approval' could be 'ok' (OK is an example) and 'ok' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'no' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'appears' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nook that I've seen before include "Secluded spot" , "Comfortable corner" , "Sheltered and secluded place" , "Corner - narrow recess" , "Alcove" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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