Crossword Genius

Underwear in state: groom is wearing it! (12)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

combinations

'underwear' is the definition.
(combinations means an old-fashioned undergarment)

'state groom is wearing it' is the wordplay.
'state' becomes 'nation' (both can mean a country).
'groom' becomes 'comb' (combing is a way of grooming oneself).
'wearing it' indicates putting letters inside (some letters are \'worn\' by others).
'comb'+'is'='combis'
'nation' put within 'combis' is 'COMBINATIONS'.

'in' is the link.

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.