Crossword Genius

Tracts restricted to the Near East (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

areas

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

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

'restricted to the near east' is the wordplay.
'AREAS' is hidden in amongst the letters.
But, I'm not sure how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for areas that I've seen before include "Spaces covered by two-dimensional surfaces" , "Places" , "Geographical regions" , "Zones" , "Localities" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app