What does the cryptic crossword clue "Austere box belt (7)" mean?

The definition is "Austere". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). SPAR (synonym of "box") + TAN (synonym of "belt"); definition: "Austere" The answer is SPARTAN.

Austere box belt (7)

Guardian Cryptic #29357 | 18 Down | 2024-04-15 flower

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