What does the cryptic crossword clue "At one time included, quoted in vain (9)" mean?

The definition is "vain". The wordplay uses charade, container. ONCE (synonym of "At one time") + CITED (synonym of "quoted") [container: "in"]; definition: "vain" The answer is CONCEITED.

At one time included, quoted in vain (9)

Times Cryptic #28634 | 25 Across | 2023-06-20 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Times's puzzle site →