Crossword Genius

Some rituals have commendation (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

merit

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'commendation' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'some rituals have' is the wordplay.
'have' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'MERIT' can be found hidden inside 'some rituals'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for merit that I've seen before include "Quality deserving reward" , "Excellence, worth" , "Advantage" , "Have a right" , "Good point or quality" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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