Crossword Genius

Hold great hope for those no longer here? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

grip

'hold' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'great hope for those no longer here?' is the wordplay.
'great' becomes 'G' (abbreviation in place names).
'hope for those no longer here?' becomes 'RIP' (rest in peace).
'g'+'rip'='GRIP'

(Other definitions for grip that I've seen before include "Member of film crew" , "Grasp securely" , "Grasp, hold firmly" , "Seize interest" , "Clasp" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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