Crossword Genius

Scared fellow tied the knot (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cowed

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'scared' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'fellow tied the knot' is the wordplay.
'fellow' becomes 'co' (eg a co-worker is a fellow worker).
'tied the knot' becomes 'we'd' (I've seen this in another clue).
'co'+'wed'='COWED'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cowed that I've seen before include "Overawed" , "Subdued, kept under" , "Subdued in bovine way?" , "Browbeaten" , "Intimidated, subdued" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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