Crossword Genius

Spooner's to check appointment's in order (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dictate

'order' is the definition.
('dictate' can be a synonym of 'order')

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for dictate that I've seen before include "Order; determine" , "Issue commands" , "say" , "Give orders like Stalin" , "speak slowly" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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