Crossword Genius

Something spicy about sweetheart (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

clove

'something spicy' is the definition.

'about sweetheart' is the wordplay.
'about' becomes 'c' (abbreviation for 'circa').
'sweetheart' becomes 'love' (I've seen this before**).
'c'+'love'='CLOVE'

(Other definitions for clove that I've seen before include "Spice, used whole or ground" , "Dried flower bud spice" , "Payment for hostage" , "Pungent spice" , "Flower bud used as a spice" .)

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