Crossword Genius

Greasy plate’s protection not initially required (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

oily

'greasy' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

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

(Other definitions for oily that I've seen before include "Like a lot of fish" , "Greasy - obsequious" , "Smooth; like lubricant" , "Covered in lubricant" , "Smarmy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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