Can it arise from smouldering ashes? (3)

I believe the answer is:

gas

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'can it arise' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'from smouldering ashes?' is the wordplay.
'from' indicates a hidden word.
'GAS' is hidden in the letters of 'smouldering ashes'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gas that I've seen before include "Gossip" , "Fumes, vapour" , "Carbon dioxide, say" , "Eg, oxygen" , "What's needed to drive" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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