Helping a bookie’s business (8)

I believe the answer is:

abetting

'helping' is the definition.
(to abet is to aid or assist)

'a bookie's business' is the wordplay.
'bookie's business' becomes 'betting' (a bookmaker's business).
'a'+'betting'='ABETTING'

(Other definitions for abetting that I've seen before include "Backing" , "Helping (a criminal)" , "Encouraging, assisting" , "Aiding (a felon)" , "Assisting, in wrongdoing usually" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.