Crossword Genius

More skilful old wife has escaped a quickie, say (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

abler

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

'more skilful' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for abler that I've seen before include "fitter" , "Showing more skill" , "Increasingly smart" , "stronger" , "More proficient" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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