Crossword Genius

Head of geography made a mess, then shone (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

glittered

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'shone' is the definition.
('glitter' can be a synonym of 'shine')

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

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for glittered that I've seen before include "Sparkled" , "Was brilliant" , "Was like a star" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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