Crossword Genius

Got together after an important point cropped up (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

emerged

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'cropped up' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are past participle verbs, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'got together after an important point' is the wordplay.
'got together' becomes 'merged' (I've seen this before).
'after' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'an important point' becomes 'e' (compass point. I am not sure about the 'important' bit.).
'merged' put after 'e' is 'EMERGED'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for emerged that I've seen before include "Deem Reg to have come out" , "Came forth" , "Emanated" , "Transpired" , "Came into view or became apparent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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