Crossword Genius

Couple finally had to be supported (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

braced

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'to be supported' is the definition.
('braced' can be similar in meaning to 'supported')

'couple finally' is the wordplay.
'couple' becomes 'brace' ('brace' can be a synonym of 'couple').
'finally' becomes 'd' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'brace'+'d'='BRACED'

'had' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for braced that I've seen before include "Stiff" , "Ready for action" , "Steadied against a blow or shock" , "Supported, gave firmness to" , "Ready for impact - wearing trouser straps" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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