Crossword Genius

Nation that’s initially angry over hill and dale? (5-7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cross-country

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

'hill and dale?' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'nation that's initially angry' is the wordplay.
'nation' becomes 'country' (synonyms).
'that's initially' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'angry' becomes 'cross' (cross can mean annoyed or angry).
'country' after 'cross' is 'CROSS-COUNTRY'.

'over' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cross-country that I've seen before include "Rural running event" , "Running sport" .)

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