Crossword Genius

Smart force ten gale (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

elegant

'smart' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'force ten gale' is the wordplay.
'force' indicates an anagram (letters must be forced into a new order).
'ten'+'gale'='tengale'
'tengale' with letters rearranged gives 'ELEGANT'.

(Other definitions for elegant that I've seen before include "Refined and dignified in appearance" , "Dignified and graceful" , "Fine" , "Attractive and graceful or stylish" , "Polished" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app