Crossword Genius

Strip the dog? Some might say: hold off (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

defer

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'hold off' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for defer that I've seen before include "Capitulate" , "Accede" , "Submit to someone" , "Postpone - submit" , "Hold back to a later time" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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