Crossword Genius

Want to remove dead electrical connection (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

earth

'electrical connection' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'want to remove dead' is the wordplay.
'want' becomes 'dearth' (both can mean a lack or scarcity).
'to remove' indicates named letters should be taken away.
'dead' becomes 'd' (abbreviation in government records).
'dearth' with 'd' taken out is 'EARTH'.

(Other definitions for earth that I've seen before include "Dirty hole" , "Fox's underground lair" , "Lair; planet" , "hideaway" , "Heart (anag)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sunday Times 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.