Official characters in Gulf or Maldives (6)

I believe the answer is:

formal

'official' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'characters in gulf or maldives' is the wordplay.
'characters in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'FORMAL' is hidden in the letters of 'gulf or maldives'.

(Other definitions for formal that I've seen before include "Conforming to accepted customs, say dress" , "Suitable for a ceremonial occasion" , "Stately or official" , "Like court dress, perhaps" , "Conforming to standards of correctness" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.