What does the cryptic crossword clue "Rear small bird (5)" mean?

The definition is "Rear". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). S (abbreviation="small") + TERN (synonym="bird") = STERN; definition: "Rear" The answer is STERN.

Rear small bird (5)

Guardian Cryptic #27759 | 25 Across | 2019-03-04 flower

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Independent Cryptic #11986 (2025-03-10)