Crossword Genius

Bits of litter spread over street (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

runts

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

'bits of litter' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.

'spread over street' is the wordplay.
'spread' becomes 'run' (running is a kind of spreading).
'over' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'street' becomes 'st' (abbreviation).
'st' written backwards gives 'ts'.
'run'+'ts'='RUNTS'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for runts that I've seen before include "Smallest of litters" , "Small pigs" , "Small piglets" , "Littlest pigs" , "Smallest animals in a litter" .)

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