Crossword Genius

Top grade, as it happens, existing (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

alive

'existing' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'top grade as it happens' is the wordplay.
'top grade' becomes 'A' (top academic grade).
'as it happens' becomes 'live' (as in live television).
'a'+'live'='ALIVE'

(Other definitions for alive that I've seen before include "Breathing, existing" , "Aware" , "Alert, active" , "Functioning" , "answer, as it happens" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.