What does the cryptic crossword clue "So-called 'dear' runs off after six-footer (9)" mean?

The definition is "So-called ‘dear’". The wordplay uses a homophone (sounds like). definition: 'deer', which sounds like "dear" ELOPES="runs off" after ANT=six-legged creature="six-footer" The answer is ANTELOPES.

So-called 'dear' runs off after six-footer (9)

Guardian Cryptic #28980 | 1 Across | 2023-01-30 flower

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