Crossword Genius

Militaristic state’s ability in spring (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sparta

'militaristic state's' is the definition.
(city-state in ancient Greece)

'ability in spring' is the wordplay.
'ability' becomes 'art' (art is a kind of ability).
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'spring' becomes 'spa' (spa can mean a mineral spring).
'art' placed inside 'spa' is 'SPARTA'.

(Other definitions for sparta that I've seen before include "Old Greek city state, famous for its citizens' austere lifestyle" , "Ancient Greek city whose citizens were famed for toughness" , "Ancient Greek city noted for its austerity" , "austere place" , "Laconic state" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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