Crossword Genius

Entice Noel back around this time (4,2)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lead on

'entice' is the definition.
(I know that lead on is a kind of entice)

'noel back around this time' is the wordplay.
'back' shows that the letters should be reversed in order.
'around' is an insertion indicator.
'this time' becomes 'AD' (AD, Anno Domini, as opposed to BC, Before Christ).
'noel' in reverse letter order is 'leon'.
'leon' enclosing 'ad' is 'LEAD ON'.

(Other definitions for lead on that I've seen before include "Entice" , "Show the way inside" , "Take for a ride" , "Deceive in fun" , "to come first" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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.