Crossword Genius

Essay spotlights stifled voices (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

says

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

'stifled voices' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with communicating as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I don't see?

'essay spotlights' is the wordplay.
'SAYS' is hidden within the letters.
However, I'm unsure how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for says that I've seen before include "Expresses in words" , "Traditional Mexican strolling musician" , "States" , "Verbalises" , "Utters" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.
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