Crossword Genius

Patsy was too generous to be belittled (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stooge

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

'patsy' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'was too generous to be belittled' is the wordplay.
'STOOGE' is hidden in amongst the letters.
But, I am uncertain how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stooge that I've seen before include "A comedian's assistant, butt of his jokes" , "Butt of a comic's jokes" , "Yes-man" , "Comedian's assistant-victim" , "Fall guy" .)

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