Crossword Genius

Start to rant having necked one drink (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

originate

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'start' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'rant having necked one drink' is the wordplay.
'rant' becomes 'orate' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'having necked' indicates putting letters inside (neck can mean to drink or swallow).
'one' becomes 'i' (Roman numeral).
'drink' becomes 'gin' (gin is an alcoholic drink).
'i'+'gin'='igin'
'orate' enclosing 'igin' is 'ORIGINATE'.

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for originate that I've seen before include "Found" , "From kick off" , "In spring" , "Launch" , "Cause to begin, be the first" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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