Crossword Genius

In effect, a permanent record (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tape

'record' is the definition.
(taping is a kind of recording)

'in effect a permanent' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'TAPE' can be found hidden inside 'effect a permanent'.

(Other definitions for tape that I've seen before include "Record; finishing line" , "Bind" , "Recording material" , "Record; material strip" , "Strip, magnetic, video, etc." .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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