Crossword Genius

Still avoiding eastern desert (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

quit

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

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

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for quit that I've seen before include "Leave, depart" , "Give up or abandon a task" , "Desist" , "Leave, desert" , "Discontinue an activity" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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