Crossword Genius

Choice by editor — with a feather in one’s cap? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

plumed

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

'a feather in one's cap?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'choice by editor' is the wordplay.
'choice' becomes 'plum' (both can mean excellent).
'by' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'editor' becomes 'ed' (abbreviation).
'plum'+'ed'='PLUMED'

'with' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for plumed that I've seen before include "Adorned with fancy feathers" , "congratulated" , "Having ornamental tuft" , "Feathered" , "Decorated with feathers" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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