Crossword Genius

Authorised by the ref? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

official

This clue is a double definition.

'authorised' is the first definition.
('official' can be similar in meaning to 'authorized')

'the ref?' is the second definition.
(ref is a kind of official)

'by' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for official that I've seen before include "It's no rumour - he's in charge" , "Authorised representative" , "Functionary" , "Authorised - formal" , "worthy of credibility" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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