Being legless, repents moving about (7)

I believe the answer is:

serpent

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

'being legless repents moving about' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'repents moving about' is the wordplay.
'moving about' indicates anagramming the letters.
'repents' anagrammed gives 'SERPENT'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for serpent that I've seen before include "Scaly reptile" , "Snake - old wind instrument" , "Venomous snake" , "Present for a snake" , "Large snake, dragon" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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.