Crossword Genius

Simple way to start a mobile menagerie (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stark

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'simple' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

'way to start a mobile menagerie' is the wordplay.
'way' becomes 'st' (abbreviation for street).
'to start' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'a mobile menagerie' becomes 'ark' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'st'+'ark'='STARK'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stark that I've seen before include "Unclothed - unvarnished" , "Harsh, bare" , "Severe looking; naked" , "Severe in appearance" , "Plain" .)

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