Crossword Genius

Heading off, applauded what 3 did? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lapped

'what 3 did?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'heading off applauded' is the wordplay.
'heading off' means to remove the first letter.
'applauded' becomes 'clapped' ('clap' can be a synonym of 'applaud').
'clapped' with its initial letter taken off is 'LAPPED'.

(Other definitions for lapped that I've seen before include "Made extra circuit" , "Washed or flowed against" , "Circuited" , "Scooped up with the tongue" , "Took up with the tongue" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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