What does the cryptic crossword clue "Obsequious sergeant major and his area of influence (6)" mean?

The definition is "Obsequious". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). SM (synonym="sergeant major") + ARMY (synonym="his area of influence") = SMARMY; definition: "Obsequious" The answer is SMARMY.

Obsequious sergeant major and his area of influence (6)

Times Cryptic #28969 | 12 Across | 2024-07-15 flower

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