What does the cryptic crossword clue "Handle thief following specific way of working (8)" mean?

The definition is "Handle". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). MO (synonym="modus operandi, “specific way of working”") + NICKER (synonym="”thief”") = MONICKER; definition: "“Handle” as in a name NICKER=”thief”" The answer is MONICKER.

Handle thief following specific way of working (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29337 | 26 Across | 2024-03-22 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Guardian's puzzle site →