Crossword Genius

Needs new compact (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dense

'compact' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'needs new' is the wordplay.
'new' is an anagram indicator.
'needs' anagrammed gives 'DENSE'.

(Other definitions for dense that I've seen before include "Close - compact - stupid" , "Thick, compact or crowded" , "Stupid; compacted" , "Closely packed" , "Tightly packed - stupid" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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