Crossword Genius

Aromatic kernel in stone cask overturned (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nutmeg

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

'stone cask overturned' is the wordplay.
'stone' becomes 'gem' (gemstone).
'cask' becomes 'tun' (tun is a kind of cask).
'overturned' is a reversal indicator.
'gem'+'tun'='gemtun'
'gemtun' back-to-front is 'NUTMEG'.

'in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for nutmeg that I've seen before include "Asian tree whose aromatic seed is used as spice when grated or ground" , "(In soccer) kick the ball between an opponent's legs" , "Aromatic seed - met gnu (anag)" , "Aromatic spicy kernel" , "Aromatic seasoning" .)

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