A lot of elephants judged to be audible (4)

I believe the answer is:

herd

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'a lot' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both groups as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for herd that I've seen before include "The rabble" , "Drive" , "Animal group" , "Group of animals of one kind" , "Large group of animals" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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