Crossword Genius

Sprouts accept defeat (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rout

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

'defeat' is the definition.
(I know that rout is a type of defeat)

'sprouts accept' is the wordplay.
'ROUT' is hidden in amongst the letters.
However, I'm unsure how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rout that I've seen before include "Debacle" , "Defeat thoroughly" , "Put to flight, disperse" , "Act like a pig" , "Overwhelming victory" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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