Crossword Genius

Bold and loud, not able to listen? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fearless

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

'bold' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'loud not able to listen?' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'loud' could be 'f' (short for forte - 'loud' in music) and 'f' is found within the answer.
'not' could be 'less' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'less' is present in the answer.
The remaining letters 'ear' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'and' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for fearless that I've seen before include "Oblivious of dangers or perils" , "game?" , "Stout-hearted" , "Audacious" , "Hardy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian and The Sun.
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