Crossword Genius

Noel's doctor rings Mike - it's grave (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

solemn

'grave' is the definition.
('solemn' can be a synonym of 'grave')

'noel's doctor rings mike' is the wordplay.
'doctor' is an anagram indicator.
'rings' is an insertion indicator.
'mike' becomes 'm' (phonetic alphabet: alpha, bravo, charlie etc.).
'noels' is an anagram of 'solen'.
'solen' going around 'm' is 'SOLEMN'.

'it's' is the link.

(Other definitions for solemn that I've seen before include "Formal, ceremonius" , "Marked by pomp, cermony or formality" , "Unsmiling" , "Formal, dignified" , "Stately, pompous or glum" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times and the Irish Times (Crosaire).
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