Abysmal taverna embodies republic (5)

I believe the answer is:

malta

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

'republic' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'abysmal taverna embodies' is the wordplay.
'MALTA' is hidden within the letters.
However, I'm uncertain how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for malta that I've seen before include "Island nation" , "defiant island in WW2" , "Mediterranean island, capital Valletta" , "Island European country" , "Island to the south of Sicily" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.