Crossword Genius

In essence, a tree swallow (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

eat

'swallow' is the definition.
(I've seen this in other clues)

'in essence a tree' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'EAT' is hidden within 'essence a tree'.

(Other definitions for eat that I've seen before include "Scoff" , "tolerate in diet" , "get stuck in" , "Worry" , "Munch" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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