Crossword Genius

Rotten set free (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

putrid

'rotten' is the definition.
('putrid' can be a synonym of 'rotten')

'set free' is the wordplay.
'set' becomes 'put' ('put' can be a synonym of 'set').
'free' becomes 'rid' ('rid' can be a synonym of 'free'**).
'put'+'rid'='PUTRID'

(Other definitions for putrid that I've seen before include "Foul" , "Really rotten and foul-smelling" , "Decayed, rotten" , "Rotting, fetid" , "contaminated" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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