Crossword Genius

British Liberal politician embracing international reactionary sort (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

blimp

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

'reactionary sort' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'british liberal politician embracing international' is the wordplay.
'british' becomes 'b' (abbreviation e.g. in 'BBC').
'liberal' becomes 'l' (abbreviation).
'politician' becomes 'MP' (Member of Parliament).
'embracing' indicates putting letters inside.
'international' becomes 'i' (abbreviation eg in IMF).
'l'+'mp'='lmp'
'lmp' going around 'i' is 'limp'.
'b'+'limp'='BLIMP'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for blimp that I've seen before include "Barrage balloon; backwoods Colonel" , "Pompous type - barrage balloon" , "returns one pound to provost" , "Small nonrigid airship" , "David Low's cartoon colonel - airship used for publicity" .)

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