What does the cryptic crossword clue "Man in check with a pawn (4)" mean?

The definition is "Man". The wordplay uses anagram, charade. anagram of A ("a") + CH (synonym of "check") + P (abbreviation of "pawn") = CHAP; definition: "Man" The answer is Chap.

Man in check with a pawn (4)

Telegraph #29447 | 5 Down | 2020-08-20 flower

Visit Telegraph's puzzle site →

Also seen in

Independent Cryptic #11735 (2024-05-21)