Crossword Genius

Devils protected by rude monsters (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

demons

'devils' is the definition.
('demon' can be a synonym of 'devil')

'protected by rude monsters' is the wordplay.
'protected by' indicates a hidden word.
'DEMONS' is hidden in the letters of 'rude monsters'.

(Other definitions for demons that I've seen before include "Evil supernatural beings" , "Wicked people" , "Fiends or devils" , "Evil spirits, devils" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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