Crossword Genius

Was of service, but showed no haste (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

waited

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

'showed no haste' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to thinking as well as being past participle verbs.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for waited that I've seen before include "Remained in readiness" , "Lingered; attended" , "Held back" , "Served at table or postponed some action" , "Stayed in one place, anticipating something" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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