Clever backing in Cincinnati or Dallas (6)
I believe the answer is:
adroit
'clever' is the definition.
(synonyms)
'backing in cincinnati or dallas' is the wordplay.
'backing' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'in' indicates a hidden word.
'tiorda' can be found hidden inside 'cincinnati or dallas'.
'tiorda' written backwards gives 'ADROIT'.
(Other definitions for adroit that I've seen before include "Canny" , "Deft and skilful" , "resourceful" , "Deft and proficient" , "Skilful, dexterous" .)