Crossword Genius

Played with Edward around, only outside (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

toyed

'played with' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'edward around only outside' is the wordplay.
'edward' becomes 'ted'.
'around' indicates putting letters inside.
'outside' means to remove the middle letters.
'only' with its middle removed is 'oy'.
'ted' going around 'oy' is 'TOYED'.

(Other definitions for toyed that I've seen before include "was trifling" , "Trifled (with someone's affections)" , "Engaged in an activity, but not seriously" , "Acted idly" , "Played" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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