Crossword Genius

Former writer’s ultimately excessive outlay (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

expense

'outlay' is the definition.
('expense' can be a synonym of 'outlay')

'former writer's ultimately excessive' is the wordplay.
'former' becomes 'ex'.
'writer's' becomes 'pens' (**).
'ultimately' suggests the final letters.
The last letter of 'excessive' is 'e'.
'ex'+'pens'+'e'='EXPENSE'

(Other definitions for expense that I've seen before include "What something costs" , "Disbursal" , "Cost - price" , "damage" , "Incurred cost" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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.