Crossword Genius

Rug friend shortened (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mat

'rug' is the definition.
(both are floor coverings)

'friend shortened' is the wordplay.
'friend' becomes 'mate' (mate is a kind of friend).
'shortened' means to remove the last letter.
'mate' with its final letter taken off is 'MAT'.

(Other definitions for mat that I've seen before include "Rug; without a shine" , "A piece of material as floor covering" , "Shoe-cleaner" , "Unglossy floor pad" , "Not glossy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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