Crossword Genius

Scared witless, I'd gone -- made me think (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

intimated

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'made me think' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both to do with communicating as well as being past participle verbs.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for intimated that I've seen before include "have given a hint" , "Suggested" , "Let it be known" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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