Crossword Genius

Play joke on editor, suggesting it's written in a puzzling way (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

coded

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

'it's written in a puzzling way' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'play joke on editor' is the wordplay.
'play joke on' becomes 'cod' (I've seen this before).
'editor' becomes 'ed' (abbreviation).
'cod'+'ed'='CODED'

'suggesting' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for coded that I've seen before include "Enciphered" , "Encrypted, prearranged for secrecy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app