Crossword Genius

Extremely anxious captain to abort take off (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ascend

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

'take off' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ascend that I've seen before include "Move upwards" , "Take off" , "Climb, rise" , "Gain altitude" , "Mount" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app