Crossword Genius

Base failing, reportedly? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

floor

'base' is the definition.
(I know that base can be written as floor)

'failing reportedly?' is the wordplay.
'failing' becomes 'flaw' (I've seen this before).
'reportedly?' indicates a 'sounds like' (homophone) clue (I've seen 'reportedly' mean this).
'flaw' is a homophone of 'FLOOR'.

(Other definitions for floor that I've seen before include "Part of building" , "Fox" , "Bottom surface" , "Sea bottom; baffle" , "Knock down - planking" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.