What does the cryptic crossword clue "Ruler once capturing Major without volunteers (4,4)" mean?

The definition is "Ruler once". The wordplay uses a deletion. KING (synonym="‘capturing’") + JOHN (synonym="‘Major’ onetime PM") = KINGJOHN; definition: "Ruler once" The answer is KINGJOHN.

Ruler once capturing Major without volunteers (4,4)

Guardian Cryptic #29086 | 25 Across | 2023-06-02 flower

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