Crossword Genius

Noblewomen having fees to bag game (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

duchesses

'noblewomen' is the definition.
(duchess is a kind of noblewoman)

'fees to bag game' is the wordplay.
'fees' becomes 'dues' (payments which are due).
'to bag' indicates putting letters inside.
'game' becomes 'chess game' (chess game is a kind of game).
'dues' going around 'chess' is 'DUCHESSES'.

'having' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for duchesses that I've seen before include "ladies" , "aristocrats" .)

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