Maybe Scouse son returned tearful (4)

I believe the answer is:

stew

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

'maybe scouse' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'son returned tearful' is the wordplay.
'son' becomes 's'.
'returned' is a reversal indicator.
'tearful' becomes 'wet' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'wet' backwards is 'tew'.
's'+'tew'='STEW'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stew that I've seen before include "Cook by simmering slowly" , "Lazy person" , "Meat and veg dish" , "Agitation; food" , "anxious state" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

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.