Crossword Genius

Backing made Mr Aladdin somewhat distressed (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

alarmed

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'distressed' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'backing made mr aladdin somewhat' is the wordplay.
'backing' says the letters should be written backwards.
'somewhat' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'demrala' can be found hidden inside 'made mr aladdin'.
'demrala' backwards is 'ALARMED'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for alarmed that I've seen before include "Terrified" , "Anxious; disturb" , "Frightened, frightened by danger" , "Frightened, scared" , "Given a turn" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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