Crossword Genius

Cut a former partner returning (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

axe

'cut' is the definition.
(both can mean to cancel or remove)

'a former partner returning' is the wordplay.
'former partner' becomes 'ex' (an ex-partner).
'returning' is a reversal indicator.
'ex' back-to-front is 'xe'.
'a'+'xe'='AXE'

(Other definitions for axe that I've seen before include "Fraternize" , "Chop" , "saw alternative?" , "Terminate; chopper" , "fell" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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