Crossword Genius

Become rigid like the boss if you are unguarded (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ossify

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'become rigid' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'the boss if you are unguarded' is the wordplay.
'OSSIFY' is hidden in amongst the letters.
But, I am not sure how the hidden word is indicated.

'like' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ossify that I've seen before include "Change into bone, or become unprogressive" , "Become hard and bony with age" , "become hardened" , "Convert into bone" , "Solidify; turn into bone" .)

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