Crossword Genius

It's earned working to curry favour (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

endear

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

'curry favour' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their base form, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'it's earned working' is the wordplay.
'working' indicates anagramming the letters.
'earned' anagrammed gives 'ENDEAR'.

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for endear that I've seen before include "Arouse affection" , "Evoke love - charm" , "Charm, captivate" , "make sweet" , "Make popular" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times and the Irish Times (Crosaire).
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.