Crossword Genius

Ill at ease in equipage; French primarily, not British (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

farouche

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'ill' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I don't see?

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for farouche that I've seen before include "ill at ease in society" , "Sullen, socially immature" , "Shy, sullen, lacking polish" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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