What does the cryptic crossword clue "Novel association of Stern and UK newspaper (4,5)" mean?

The definition is "Novel". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). HARD (synonym="‘stern’") + TIMES (synonym="‘UK newspaper’") = HARDTIMES; definition: "Novel" The answer is HARDTIMES.

Novel association of Stern and UK newspaper (4,5)

Guardian Cryptic #29408 | 14 Down | 2024-06-13 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Guardian's puzzle site →