Time served in West Iraq (4)

I believe the answer is:

stir

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

'time' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

'in west iraq' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates a hidden word.
'STIR' is hidden within 'west iraq'.

'served' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stir that I've seen before include "Uproar" , "riot" , "Move around - prison" , "Rotate spoon" , "Start to move" .)

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.