Crossword Genius

Justify old patent (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

explain

'justify' is the definition.
(explaining is a kind of justifying)

'old patent' is the wordplay.
'old' becomes 'ex'.
'patent' becomes 'plain' ('plain' can be a synonym of 'patent').
'ex'+'plain'='EXPLAIN'

(Other definitions for explain that I've seen before include "Defend" , "Describe" , "offer clarification" , "Show the meaning of, make clear" , "Show the whys and wherefores" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.