Crossword Genius

Constant or variable dates before Lent? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

steadfast

'constant' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'variable dates before lent?' is the wordplay.
'variable' is an anagram indicator (a varied form of the letters).
'before' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'lent?' becomes 'fast' (I've seen this before).
'dates' anagrammed gives 'stead'.
'stead'+'fast'='STEADFAST'

'or' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for steadfast that I've seen before include "Fixed, unyielding" , "Dedicated" , "Constant; true" , "Firm, fixed and faithful" , "Constant, not changing or yielding" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app