Crossword Genius

Key leader removed fencing — bitter shock? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

startle

'shock?' is the definition.
(I know that startle is a type of ball over)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for startle that I've seen before include "Surprise with fright" , "Take unawares with rattles" , "Alarm (someone)" , "Scare" , "Surprise with starlet" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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