Crossword Genius

Female diner excited partner (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

friend

'partner' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

'female diner excited' is the wordplay.
'female' becomes 'f' (abbreviation**).
'excited' is an anagram indicator.
'diner' with letters rearranged gives 'riend'.
'f'+'riend'='FRIEND'

(Other definitions for friend that I've seen before include "Associate, supporter" , "Organisation's supporter" , "Pal, amigo" , "Buddy, chum" , "Comrade for finder" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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