What does the cryptic crossword clue "A deterrent to sound triumphant after false alarm (9)" mean?

The definition is "A deterrent". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). SCARE (synonym=""false alarm"") + CROW (synonym=""to sound triumphant"") = SCARECROW; definition: "A deterrent" The answer is SCARECROW.

A deterrent to sound triumphant after false alarm (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29172 | 9 Across | 2023-09-11 flower

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