Crossword Genius

Cymbal lady used muffled poet's story (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ballad

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

'muffled poet's story' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?

'cymbal lady' is the wordplay.
'BALLAD' is hidden in amongst the letters.
However, I am not sure how the hidden word is indicated.

'used' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ballad that I've seen before include "Folk song" , "Song that tells a story" , "Simple song or poem" , "A simple or old song" , "delivered by singer" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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