Crossword Genius

Break down rocks in reverse, from mined ores (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

erode

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

'break down rocks' is the definition.
'erode' can be an answer for 'break' (eroding is a kind of breaking). I am not sure about the 'down rocks' bit.

'reverse from mined ores' is the wordplay.
'reverse' says the letters should be written backwards.
'from' indicates a hidden word.
'edore' is hidden in the letters of 'mined ores'.
'edore' written backwards gives 'ERODE'.

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for erode that I've seen before include "Become ground down or deteriorate" , "Grind down" , "Abrade" , "'Deteriorate, wear away (5)'" , "Wear away with weather" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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.