Crossword Genius

Fondle around the head (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

canoodle

'fondle' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'around the head' is the wordplay.
'around' becomes 'ca' (circa).
'the head' becomes 'noodle' (noodle is a kind of head**).
'ca'+'noodle'='CANOODLE'

(Other definitions for canoodle that I've seen before include "Behave amorously" , "Fondle" , "spoon" , "Hug and kiss" , "Smooch" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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