Crossword Genius

As once worn by roughs, we hear? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ruffs

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'as once worn by' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'roughs we hear?' is the wordplay.
'we hear?' shows a homophone (sound like).
'roughs' sounds like 'RUFFS'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ruffs that I've seen before include "Elizabethan collars" , "Neck frills" , "More than one frill" , "changes suit for one's benefit" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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