Crossword Genius

Sweetheart behind benefit party suddenly got excited (6,2)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

perked up

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'suddenly got excited' is the definition.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for perked up that I've seen before include "Looked happier" , "given lots of extra benefits?" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.
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