Crossword Genius

Wash up, mate (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pal

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This clue could be a double definition.

'wash up' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their base form, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'mate' is the second definition.
(thesaurus)

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pal that I've seen before include "Mate, informal friend" , "Buddy, chum" , "Brother" , "Mate, buddy" , "Close friend" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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