What does the cryptic crossword clue "Old joke to admire is clear (9)" mean?

The definition is "clear". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). EX (synonym of "Old") + ONE (synonym of "joke") + RATE (synonym of "admire"); definition: "clear" The answer is EXONERATE.

Old joke to admire is clear (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29246 | 22 Across | 2023-12-06 flower

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