Crossword Genius

Held back loyal journalist (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

staunched

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'held back' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are past participle verbs, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'loyal journalist' is the wordplay.
'loyal' becomes 'staunch' (I've seen this in another clue).
'journalist' becomes 'ed' (short for editor).
'staunch'+'ed'='STAUNCHED'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for staunched that I've seen is " checked".)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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