Crossword Genius

One looking for scraps may show it (12)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

belligerence

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

'one looking for scraps' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how they can define each other.

'show it' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'show' could be 'er' (US medical drama) and 'er' is found within the answer.
'it' could be 'e' ('e' can mean 'electronic' which is similar to 'IT') and 'e' is present in the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'may' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for belligerence that I've seen before include "Aggressiveness" , "Pugnacity" , "sabre-rattling" , "Aggressive behaviour" , "Aggression" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent, The Guardian, The Telegraph and The Globe and Mail.
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.