Smartly brushed application of paint? (4)

I believe the answer is:

coat

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'application of paint?' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for coat that I've seen before include "Outer garment" , "Ulster, perhaps" , "Apply layer" , "Overgarment" , "Layer of paint" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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