Crossword Genius

Backs finish before Cockney nags (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

endorses

'backs' is the definition.
('endorse' can be a synonym of 'back')

'finish before cockney nags' is the wordplay.
'finish' becomes 'end' (synonyms).
'before' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'cockney nags' becomes ''orses' ('horses' said with the 'H' dropped - a cockney accent.).
'end'+'orses'='ENDORSES'

(Other definitions for endorses that I've seen before include "'Supports, backs (8)'" , "Gives support or approval to" , "One dress (anag.)" , "Approves, supports" , "Countersigns, approves" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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