Crossword Genius

Frank is old writer (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

open

'frank' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'old writer' is the wordplay.
'old' becomes 'o' (common abbreviation eg in OE for Old English).
'writer' becomes 'pen' (something which writes).
'o'+'pen'='OPEN'

'is' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for open that I've seen before include "sporting competition" , "Not shut or secret" , "Golf tournament" , "Liberal" , "William --, English poet" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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