Crossword Genius

What might have altered a politician such as Lloyd George? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

literal

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'george?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how one could define the other.

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for literal that I've seen before include "according to specifications" , "excluding metaphors" , "mistake" , "Exact (translation)" , "Lacking imagination; misprint" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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