Crossword Genius

English language holding daughter back (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

endorse

'back' is the definition.
('endorse' can be a synonym of 'back')

'english language holding daughter' is the wordplay.
'english' becomes 'e' (abbreviation).
'language' becomes 'norse' (Norse is an example**).
'holding' indicates putting letters inside.
'daughter' becomes 'd'.
'norse' enclosing 'd' is 'ndorse'.
'e'+'ndorse'='ENDORSE'

(Other definitions for endorse that I've seen before include "Corroborate" , "Sore end (anag.)" , "Give public approval of (something)" , "'Approve of, back (7)'" , "Give support or approval to" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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