Crossword Genius

Spread in book, say (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

butter

'spread' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'book say' is the wordplay.
'book' becomes 'b'.
'say' becomes 'utter' (I've seen this before).
'b'+'utter'='BUTTER'

'in' is the link.

(Other definitions for butter that I've seen before include "Spread derived from cream" , "Edible fat" , "(and 4) Kind of toffee" , "goat?" , "If it wouldn't melt in your mouth, you're innocent" .)

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