Crossword Genius

Asian dictator hiding yen in part of Ireland (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mayo

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

'part of ireland' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'asian dictator hiding yen' is the wordplay.
'asian dictator' becomes 'mao' (Chinese dictator Chairman Mao. I am not sure about the 'asian' bit.).
'hiding' indicates putting letters inside.
'yen' becomes 'y' (resembles the symbol for the currency of Japan).
'mao' placed around 'y' is 'MAYO'.

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mayo that I've seen before include "Irish county (county town, Castlebar)" , "Irish county; dressing" , "County of Western Eire" , "radio presenter" , "Cold, creamy sauce (abbr)" .)

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