Crossword Genius

Ship carrying less ballast? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lighter

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'ship' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for lighter that I've seen before include "relieved of some cargo?" , "carrying less cargo?" , "Barge; igniter" , "carrying less weight" , "- boot; - bun; - ware" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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