Crossword Genius

Behold! It was mistaken, not right, but hung around (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

loitered

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

'hung around' is the definition.
('loiter' can be a synonym of 'hang around')

'behold it was mistaken not right' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'behold' could be 'lo' (archaic exclamation meaning 'look!') and 'lo' is located in the answer.
'it' could be 't' (abbreviation. e.g. in 'tis) and 't' is found in the answer.
'right' could be 'r' (common abbreviation) and 'r' is present in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'but' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for loitered that I've seen before include "Dallied" , "Stood around aimlessly" , "Did tarry" , "Hung about, with intent perhaps" , "Kicked heels" .)

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