Crossword Genius

Bridge player’s big meal lacking starter (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

east

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'bridge player's' is the definition.
(name given to one player in the card game bridge)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for east that I've seen before include "Cardinal compass point" , "Compass bearing" , "Compass point at 90 degrees" , "Oriental lands" , "On most maps it's right!" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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