Crossword Genius

Sooty perhaps having obligation to hold Sweep but not cry (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dusty

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

'sooty perhaps' is the definition.
(soot is dusty or powdery)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dusty that I've seen before include "Covered in fine particles" , "bad?" , "Dull (like a miller?)" , "In need of cleaning" , "Ms Springfield" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.