Crossword Genius

Put off ruler, recoiling before something seedy (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

repulse

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

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for repulse that I've seen before include "Drive back or reject" , "kick in the teeth" , "Fend off" , "Be disgusting - drive back" , "Drive back by force" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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