Crossword Genius

Long story: ear needs boxing (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

yearn

'long' is the definition.
(I know that long can be written as yearn)

'story ear needs boxing' is the wordplay.
'boxing' indicates a hidden word (the solution is contained or boxed up by the clue).
'YEARN' is hidden within 'story ear needs'.

(Other definitions for yearn that I've seen before include "Long - pine" , "Mark of injury" , "wish" , "Feel desire" , "Have a craving" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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.