What does the cryptic crossword clue "Maiden king's taken in hand (5)" mean?

The definition is "Maiden". The wordplay uses charade, container. R (synonym of "king's") + FIST (synonym of "hand") [container: "taken"]; definition: "Maiden" The answer is FIRST.

Maiden king's taken in hand (5)

Times Cryptic #28869 | 5 Down | 2024-03-20 flower

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