Crossword Genius

Little rascal learning to beg (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

implore

'beg' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'little rascal learning' is the wordplay.
'little rascal' becomes 'imp'.
'learning' becomes 'lore' (I've seen this before).
'imp'+'lore'='IMPLORE'

'to' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for implore that I've seen before include "Beg earnestly, beseech" , "More lip (anag)" , "Ask earnestly" , "Beg earnestly, entreat" , "Beg earnestly, plead" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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