Crossword Genius

Decorated old Royal Navy mate losing millions (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ornate

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

'old royal navy mate losing millions' is the wordplay.
'old' becomes 'o' (abbreviation).
'royal navy' becomes 'RN' (abbreviation for Royal Navy).
'losing' is a deletion indicator.
'millions' becomes 'm' (abbreviation).
'mate' with 'm' removed is 'ate'.
'o'+'rn'+'ate'='ORNATE'

(Other definitions for ornate that I've seen before include "Highly decorated" , "Richly decorative" , "Florid" , "Detailed" , "Over-elaborate" .)

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.