Crossword Genius

Cowed and bust after getting a fine (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

afraid

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

'bust after getting a fine' is the wordplay.
'bust' becomes 'raid' (synonyms).
'after getting' says to put letters next to each other.
'fine' becomes 'f' (abbreviation).
'a'+'f'='af'
'raid' put after 'af' is 'AFRAID'.

'and' is the link.

(Other definitions for afraid that I've seen before include "Scared, apprehensive" , "Feeling anxiety or fear" , "Not confident" , "Nervous" , "with butterflies" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.