Crossword Genius

Getting old, like Bugs Bunny? (4,2,3,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

long in the tooth

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

'getting old' is the definition.
'long in the tooth' can be an answer for 'old' (I've seen this in another clue). I am not sure about the 'getting' bit.

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

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for long in the tooth that I've seen before include "Rather old" , "Been around" , "indication of the need for cosmetic dentistry?" , "Getting on a bit" , "Was a woolly mammoth" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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