Crossword Genius

Now editors have to have been obliged (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

owed

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'been obliged' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'now editors have to have' is the wordplay.
'to have' indicates a hidden word.
'OWED' is hidden within 'now editors have'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for owed that I've seen before include "Had a duty to pay" , "In debt to" , "Was due to pay" , "Was obliged to pay" , "(Sum) due for payment" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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