Pale like a layer (5)

I believe the answer is:

ashen

'pale' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'like a layer' is the wordplay.
'like' becomes 'as'.
'a layer' becomes 'hen' (hens lay eggs).
'as'+'hen'='ASHEN'

(Other definitions for ashen that I've seen before include "Shane (anag.)" , "(Of face) pale (with shock)" , "Greyish" , "Having gone pale" , "Pale in complexion" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.

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