Antelope minus tail in dash (4)

I believe the answer is:

elan

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'dash' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for elan that I've seen before include "Stylish enthusiasm" , "Dash, style" , "Flamboyance" , "Grass with edible grains" , "Flair and dash" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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