Crossword Genius

Attempted some lines, say, edgily (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

essayed

'attempted' is the definition.
('essay' can be a synonym of 'attempt')

'some lines say edgily' is the wordplay.
'some' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue (some of the parts of the word are used).
'ESSAYED' can be found hidden inside 'lines say edgily'.

(Other definitions for essayed that I've seen before include "Attempted, strove" , "Attempted, endeavoured" , "Tried (E, not A)" , "Attempted, tried" , "Made formal attempt" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app