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Doubts function of hearing aids (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fears

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'doubts' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their -s form, I don't understand how one could define the other.

'function of hearing aids' is the wordplay.
'function of' becomes 'f' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'hearing aids' becomes 'ears' (I've seen this in another clue).
'f'+'ears'='FEARS'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for fears that I've seen before include "Concerns, dreads" , "Apprehensions" , "Is afraid of" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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