Crossword Genius

Made tree look smart? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

spruced

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

'made tree look' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to bodily activities as well as being past participle verbs.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'smart?' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'smart?' could be 'spruce' (synonyms) and 'spruce' is located in the answer.
A single letter 'd' remains which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for spruced that I've seen before include "freshened" , "Did tart" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app