Crossword Genius

Criticise long dash (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

panache

'dash' is the definition.
('panache' can be a synonym of 'dash')

'criticise long' is the wordplay.
'criticise' becomes 'pan' (informal term meaning to criticise heavily).
'long' becomes 'ache' ('ache' can be a synonym of 'long').
'pan'+'ache'='PANACHE'

(Other definitions for panache that I've seen before include "Style, elan" , "Flamboyant confidence" , "Sense of style, swagger" , "Swagger; theatricality" , "A dashing manner" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph, the Sydney Morning Herald and The Sun.
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