Crossword Genius

Puts nations into words? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

states

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

'puts nations' is the definition.
'states' can be an answer for 'nations' ('state' can be a synonym of 'nation'). I'm not sure about the 'puts' bit.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for states that I've seen before include "America; says" , "Conditions or circumstances" , "Countries with a central government" , "Proclaims" , "Utters in the American Union" .)

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