Crossword Genius

Boy's terrifying brief encounter with a mollusc (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

oyster

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

'mollusc' is the definition.
(oyster is a kind of mollusc)

'boy's terrifying brief encounter' is the wordplay.
'OYSTER' is hidden within the letters.
But, I'm not sure how this is indicated.

'with a' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for oyster that I've seen before include "Pearl-bearing sea creature" , "Shellfish - colour" , "Pearl producer" , "offering unlimited possibilities?" , "Native -- seafood" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app