What does the cryptic crossword clue "Ample smear coats painter (7)" mean?

The definition is "Ample". The wordplay uses a container (one word inside another). RA (synonym="=painter, i.e. Royal Academician") in LIBEL (synonym="=smear, defame") = LIBERAL; definition: "Ample" The answer is LIBERAL.

Ample smear coats painter (7)

Independent Cryptic #11917 | 10 Across | 2024-12-19 flower

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