Crossword Genius

Hopeful type with venom, I rave (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

aspirant

'hopeful' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'type with venom i rave' is the wordplay.
'type with venom' becomes 'asp' (venomous snake).
'rave' becomes 'rant' (synonyms).
'asp'+'i'+'rant'='ASPIRANT'

(Other definitions for aspirant that I've seen before include "Ambitious" , "Partisan sort of hopeful" , "Awannabee found in past rain" , "One seeking eg promotion" , "One who wants to succeed" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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