Crossword Genius

Top off cook (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

outdo

'top' is the definition.
(both can mean to surpass or beat)

'off cook' is the wordplay.
'off' becomes 'out' (both can mean wrong or inaccurate).
'cook' becomes 'do' (do can mean to cook).
'out'+'do'='OUTDO'

(Other definitions for outdo that I've seen before include "Surpass, go one better than" , "going to top?" , "Surpass someone at something" , "Br superior to (someone)" , "Be better in performance (than another person)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian and 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.