Crossword Genius

A stiffener for the big-headed individual (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bone

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

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

'big-headed individual' is the wordplay.
'big-headed' becomes 'b' (this could be a standard abbreviation which I don't know about).
'individual' becomes 'one' (an individual is one person).
'b'+'one'='BONE'

'for the' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bone that I've seen before include "Skeleton component" , "#Close to it is risque" , "How dry" , "Carpal or tarsal, for example" , "Skeleton material" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app