Crossword Genius

Looks fearful as Special Branch leaves lawless island on the Amalfi coast (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

blanches

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

'looks' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to bodily activities as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

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I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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