Crossword Genius

Over-sleeps allotted time (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

span

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'allotted time' is the definition.
'span' can be an answer for 'time' (thesaurus). I'm unsure of the 'allotted' bit.

'over-sleeps' is the wordplay.
'over' says the letters should be written backwards.
'sleeps' becomes 'naps' ('nap' can be a synonym of 'sleep').
'naps' written backwards gives 'SPAN'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for span that I've seen before include "Bridge - rotated" , "Extent from end to end or across" , "Extent, space for odd pans" , "Pair of horses" , "Length of bridge - 9 inches!" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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