Crossword Genius

Infect certain territories partially (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

taint

'infect' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'certain territories partially' is the wordplay.
'partially' indicates a hidden word.
'TAINT' is hidden within 'certain territories'.

(Other definitions for taint that I've seen before include "Evidence of pollution" , "Rot, spoil, define" , "Blemish" , "It isn't commonly" , "(Trace of) corruption" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.
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