Crossword Genius

Millions beg for protective cover (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mask

'protective cover' is the definition.

'millions beg' is the wordplay.
'millions' becomes 'm' (abbreviation).
'beg' becomes 'ask'.
'm'+'ask'='MASK'

'for' is the link.

(Other definitions for mask that I've seen before include "Face covering; disguise" , "One hiding, protecting face" , "Cover for the face" , "Conceal" , "Camouflage" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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