Crossword Genius

Sets aside Tom's battlescars? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

earmarks

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'sets aside' is the definition.
('earmark' can be a synonym of 'set aside')

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for earmarks that I've seen before include "Allocates; reserves" , "Sets aside, reserves" , "Identifies" , "Characteristic features" , "Sets aside for particular purpose in aural way" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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