What does the cryptic crossword clue "Fainted as a result of error in viral illness (9)" mean?

The definition is "Fainted". The wordplay uses a container (one word inside another). LAPSE (synonym="‘error’") in COLD (synonym="‘viral illness’") = COLLAPSED; definition: "Fainted" The answer is COLLAPSED.

Fainted as a result of error in viral illness (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29238 | 6 Down | 2023-11-27 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Guardian's puzzle site →