Crossword Genius

Laudatory words overdue to be uttered (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ode

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'laudatory words' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'overdue to be uttered' is the wordplay.
'overdue' becomes 'owed' (similar in meaning).
'to be uttered' indicates a 'sounds like' (homophone) clue.
'owed' sounds like 'ODE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ode that I've seen before include "Lyric poem" , "Literary work" , "Verse form" , "poetry" , "(Railway)system" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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