Crossword Genius

Early number? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ether

'early number?' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

This is the entire clue.

(Other definitions for ether that I've seen before include "Old anaesthetic -- three (anag)" , "There goes the anaesthetic" , "It could knock you out" , "The gas is there, oddly" , "Formerly an anaesthetic" .)

I've seen this clue in The Washington Post, The New York Times and the L.A. Times Daily.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.