Crossword Genius

Adheres to chest muscle during breaks (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

respects

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

'adheres' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their -s form, I can't see how one could define the other.

'chest muscle during breaks' is the wordplay.
'chest muscle' becomes 'pec' (I've seen this in another clue).
'during' is an insertion indicator.
'breaks' becomes 'rests' (resting is a kind of breaking).
'pec' going within 'rests' is 'RESPECTS'.

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for respects that I've seen before include "Polite regards" , "Regards held for sceptres" , "details" , "Has high regard for sceptres" , "Honours" .)

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