Crossword Genius

Frank, old writer (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

open

'frank' is the definition.
('open' can be a synonym of 'frank')

'old writer' is the wordplay.
'old' becomes 'o' (common abbreviation eg in OE for Old English).
'writer' becomes 'pen' (I've seen this before).
'o'+'pen'='OPEN'

(Other definitions for open that I've seen before include "Frank and unlocked" , "Widely known" , "Frank; unfold" , "Available for business, exposed" , "Honest - frank" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Daily Mail.
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