Crossword Genius

Lent for example at an exorbitant rate (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fast

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'lent' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'example at an exorbitant rate' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'example' could be 'as' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'as' is found in the answer.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'for' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for fast that I've seen before include "Rapid; firm" , "Brisk" , "Period during which fare is reduced" , "Sporting quickie?" , "requiring only brief exposure" .)

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