What does the cryptic crossword clue "Supply help as leading characters (6)" mean?

The definition is "characters". The wordplay uses an anagram. anagram of HELP (synonym="HELP") + AS (synonym="AS") = ALEPHS The answer is ALEPHS.

Supply help as leading characters (6)

Times Cryptic #28966 | 4 Down | 2024-07-11 flower