What does the cryptic crossword clue "Fewer characters than 5 taking equipment aboard public transport (7)" mean?

The definition is "a TRIGRAM has 3 characters". The wordplay uses a container (one word inside another). RIG (synonym="”equipment” entering aboard TRAM=”public transport”") in TRAM (synonym="”public transport”") = TRIGRAM; definition: "a TRIGRAM has 3 characters" The answer is TRIGRAM.

Fewer characters than 5 taking equipment aboard public transport (7)

Guardian Cryptic #29517 | 10 Across | 2024-10-18 flower

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