Crossword Genius

Bears spread stamps (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

teddies

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'bears' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.

'spread stamps' is the wordplay.
'spread' becomes 'ted' (I've seen this in another clue).
'stamps' becomes 'dies' (I've seen this in another clue).
'ted'+'dies'='TEDDIES'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for teddies that I've seen before include "Undergarments and children's toys" , "Soft toy bears" , "Children's toy bears" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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