Crossword Genius

Influence of what mischievous child did? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

impact

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'influence of' is the definition.
'impact' can be an answer for 'influence' (I've seen this in another clue). I'm not certain of the 'of' bit.

'mischievous child did?' is the wordplay.
'mischievous child' becomes 'imp' (imp can mean a misbehaving child).
'did?' becomes 'act' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'imp'+'act'='IMPACT'

'what' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for impact that I've seen before include "Result" , "Serious effect" , "hit, in a big way" , "Bear upon" , "Strong effect" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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