Crossword Genius

Cleric once cherished a religious painting (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

icon

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

'religious painting' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'cleric once cherished a' is the wordplay.
'ICON' is hidden in amongst the letters.
However, I am uncertain how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for icon that I've seen before include "Painting or person regarded as sacred" , "Adored person" , "Religious painting in Greek Orthodox Church" , "Image of a religious figure" , "Religious painting of Greek origin" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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