Crossword Genius

Did career woman finally leaving incur expense? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sped

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'did' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with motion as well as being past participle verbs.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I can't see?

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sped that I've seen before include "Hastened" , "was 8 [FLEET]" , "got a move on" , "Made haste" , "Moved quickly" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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