Crossword Genius

Run from large snake (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ladder

'run' is the definition.
(both can mean a rip in tights)

'large snake' is the wordplay.
'large' becomes 'L' (eg in clothes sizes).
'snake' becomes 'adder' (type of snake).
'l'+'adder'='LADDER'

'from' is the link.

(Other definitions for ladder that I've seen before include "Climbing structure" , "Scaling device" , "Companionway" , "Run in stockings" , "Climbing frame; damage tights" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph and The Independent.
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