Crossword Genius

Locks picked by those experiencing scarcity in Barnet? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hairpiece

'those experiencing scarcity in barnet?' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'locks picked' is the wordplay.
'locks' becomes 'hair' (I've seen this before).
'picked' becomes 'piece' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'hair'+'piece'='HAIRPIECE'

'by' is the link.

(Other definitions for hairpiece that I've seen before include "Switch, for instance" , "rug" , "False addition to existing growth on the head" , "Using switch" , "A wig or switch to supplement scalp covering" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.