Crossword Genius

Rob of renown? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

defame

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'rob' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their base form, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'of renown?' is the wordplay.
'of' becomes 'de' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'renown?' becomes 'fame' ('fame' can be a synonym of 'renown').
'de'+'fame'='DEFAME'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for defame that I've seen before include "Malign" , "Damage the reputation (of someone)" , "'Denigrate, slander (6)'" , "to pretetrate slander?" , "Damage (someone's) reputation" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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