Crossword Genius

Adopting new top speed, charges hurdles (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fences

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

'hurdles' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'adopting new top speed charges' is the wordplay.
'adopting' indicates putting letters inside (inserted letters are taken on or adopted).
'new' becomes 'n' (abbreviation as in New Testament NT).
'top speed' becomes 'c' (c can mean the speed of light).
'charges' becomes 'fees' (fee is a kind of charge).
'n'+'c'='nc'
'nc' put within 'fees' is 'FENCES'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for fences that I've seen before include "Barriers to keep in or out" , "Good ones make good neighbours, it's said" , "items for negotiation" , "Engages in swordplay or processes stolen goods" , "Barriers that enclose" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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.