Crossword Genius

Brave, social worker following bitterness (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

gallant

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

'social worker following bitterness' is the wordplay.
'social worker' becomes 'ant' (ants are social insects).
'following' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'bitterness' becomes 'gall' (synonyms).
'ant' put after 'gall' is 'GALLANT'.

(Other definitions for gallant that I've seen before include "Flirt" , "Chivalrous - dashing" , "Dandy" , "Courageous - politely attentive to women" , "Dashing gentleman" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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