Crossword Genius

Didn't work for nothing (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

earned

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

'didn't work for nothing' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'work for nothing' is the wordplay.
'work for' becomes 'earn' (I've seen this in another clue).
'nothing' becomes 'ed' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'earn'+'ed'='EARNED'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for earned that I've seen before include "Gained through work or effort" , "Merited; made" , "Acquired through work or effort" , "Received as a salary, right etc." , "Obtained through work" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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