Crossword Genius

Nick’s not a companion (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

notch

'nick's' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'not a companion' is the wordplay.
'a companion' becomes 'ch' (I've seen this in other clues).
'not'+'ch'='NOTCH'

(Other definitions for notch that I've seen before include "Indentation - step up" , "Secure" , "Indentation, nick" , "Nick - score" , "Dent" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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