Crossword Genius

Hackneyed, ultimately worn-out, ceremonial (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

trite

'hackneyed' is the definition.
(I know that hackneyed can be written as trite)

'ultimately worn-out ceremonial' is the wordplay.
'ultimately worn out' becomes 't' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'ceremonial' becomes 'rite' (I've seen this in another clue).
't'+'rite'='TRITE'

(Other definitions for trite that I've seen before include "Stock" , "Commonplace, hackneyed" , "(Of an idea) lacking in originality" , "used till novelty's worn off" , "all vigour is gone" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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