What does the cryptic crossword clue "French journal removes depleted database - it's a dud (5)" mean?

The definition is "dud". The wordplay uses a container (one word inside another). LE (synonym="LE") + MON (synonym="MON") = LEMON; definition: "‘lemon’ is slang for an unsatisfactory product e" The answer is LEMON.

French journal removes depleted database - it's a dud (5)

Guardian Cryptic #29197 | 7 Down | 2023-10-10 flower

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