Crossword Genius

Partner Ted hurriedly figured (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

patterned

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

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

'partner ted hurriedly' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'partner' could be 'n' and 'n' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'pattered' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for patterned that I've seen before include "featuring decorative designs" , "Tender tap (anag.)" , "may be checked" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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.