Crossword Genius

Gladden in uplifting English story (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

elate

'gladden' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'uplifting english story' is the wordplay.
'uplifting' is a reversal indicator.
'english' becomes 'E' (abbreviation).
'story' becomes 'tale' (synonyms).
'e'+'tale'='etale'
'etale' backwards is 'ELATE'.

'in' is the link.

(Other definitions for elate that I've seen before include "Doctor suitor to Anne Page (MWOW)" , "Lift (the spirits)" , "Encourage" , "Fill with optimism" , "Make delighted or proud" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app