What does the cryptic crossword clue "Spiteful half-dozen are ruined (8)" mean?

The definition is "Spiteful". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). VI (synonym="half-dozen") + PERISH (synonym="are ruined") = VIPERISH; definition: "Spiteful" The answer is VIPERISH.

Spiteful half-dozen are ruined (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29048 | 16 Across | 2023-04-19 flower

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