Crossword Genius

Did dock area cross delta? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

abridged

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'did dock' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are past participle verbs, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'area cross delta?' is the wordplay.
'area' becomes 'a' (maths abbreviation).
'cross' becomes 'bridge' (bridging is a kind of crossing).
'delta?' becomes 'd' (phonetic alphabet: alpha, bravo, charlie etc.).
'a'+'bridge'+'d'='ABRIDGED'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for abridged that I've seen before include "Cut short - big adder (anag)" , "Epitomised" , "Shortened as book may be" , "Shorter" , "Abbreviated, contracted" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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