Crossword Genius

Like an aristocrat perhaps to be in plenty of time? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

early

This clue is a double definition.

'like an aristocrat perhaps' is the first definition.
(like an earl)

'in plenty of time?' is the second definition.
(arriving with time to spare)

'to be' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for early that I've seen before include "Before the usual time" , "'The ..... bird catches the worm'" , "at start of day" , "with time to spare?" , "near beginning" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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