Crossword Genius

Not allowed to go to waste (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

used

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'not allowed' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with social activities as well as being past participle verbs.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for used that I've seen before include "Was treating" , "Took advantage of" , "Employed - exploited" , "Worn" , "not got directly" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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