Crossword Genius

Refuse a dish wife served much earlier (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

waste

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'refuse' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for waste that I've seen before include "Squander; spoil" , "kill" , "Blow - rubbish" , "Become gradually weaker" , "Misuse" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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