Purpose of ointment to exclude old and married (6)
I believe the answer is:
intent
'purpose' is the definition.
(synonyms)
I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for intent that I've seen before include "Meaning -- determined" , "Mean to" , "Focused" , "'Purpose, aim (6)'" , "Purpose under canvas" .)