Crossword Genius

Rousing being part of espionage plot, we're told (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

inspiring

'rousing' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

'being part of espionage plot we're told' is the wordplay.
'being part of espionage plot' becomes 'in spy ring'.
'we're told' shows a homophone (sound like).
'inspyring' sounds like 'INSPIRING'.

(Other definitions for inspiring that I've seen before include "Motivation" , "Filling with confidence, stimulating to achievement" , "Breathing (that's encouraging!)" , "Animating; uplifting" , "Impressive" .)

I've seen this clue in The Everyman puzzle in The Observer.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app