Crossword Genius

In the past George eagerly excited (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

agog

'eagerly excited' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'in the past george' is the wordplay.
'in the past' becomes 'ago' (synonyms).
'george' becomes 'g'.
'ago'+'g'='AGOG'

(Other definitions for agog that I've seen before include "Expectant, eager" , "Very eager (to hear/see)" , "On tenterhooks" , "with eyes on stalks" , "Eagerly awaiting" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app