What does the cryptic crossword clue "Name a small number after one in ultrashort time (10)" mean?

The definition is "time". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). N (synonym="abbrev. for “name”") + A (synonym="A") + NO (synonym="NO") + SECOND (synonym="after one/describing that which comes after one item/the first") = NANOSECOND; definition: "ultrashort time" The answer is NANOSECOND.

Name a small number after one in ultrashort time (10)

Guardian Cryptic #28990 | 11 Across | 2023-02-10 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Guardian's puzzle site →