Crossword Genius

American novelist of taste, elegance (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

steel

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

'american novelist' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how one could define the other.

'of taste elegance' is the wordplay.
'of' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'STEEL' can be found hidden inside 'taste elegance'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for steel that I've seen before include "Form of iron" , "Structural metal alloy" , "Strength, determination" , "nerve" , "Mixture of carbon and iron" .)

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