Crossword Genius

Worked in kitchen, lacking any energy (6,2)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

washed up

I believe this clue is a double definition.

'worked in kitchen' is the first definition.
(washing up is done in the kitchen)

'lacking any energy' is the second definition.
(washed-up can mean weak or ineffective)

(Other definitions for washed up that I've seen before include "Did kitchen duty" , "Carried ashore by the tide" , "Cleaned plates etc." , "No longer successful (colloq.)" , "Finished (the dishes?)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app