Crossword Genius

Before, had forgone the buzzer (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bee

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

'buzzer' is the definition.
(something that buzzes)

'before had forgone' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'before' could be 'e' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'e' is located in the answer.
The remaining letters 'be' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'the' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bee that I've seen before include "Buzzing insect" , "A honey-maker" , "Insect that bumbles?" , "Hive worker" , "See 17" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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