Crossword Genius

Male went first prepared for action (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

buckled

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'prepared for action' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to change as well as being past participle verbs.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'male went first' is the wordplay.
'male' becomes 'buck' (male deer).
'went first' becomes 'led' (I've seen this in another clue).
'buck'+'led'='BUCKLED'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for buckled that I've seen before include "Crumpled under pressure." , "Securely fastened" , "folded under pressure" , "Bent" , "Fastened up - gave way" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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