Crossword Genius

Choose either end of coiled string (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cord

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

'string' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'choose either end of coiled' is the wordplay.
'choose' becomes 'c' (this could be a standard abbreviation which I don't know about).
'either' becomes 'or' (I've seen this in another clue).
'end of' says to take the final letters.
The final letter of 'coiled' is 'd'.
'c'+'or'+'d'='CORD'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cord that I've seen before include "Line of twisted fibres or threads" , "Small rope or thick string" , "Strong string" , "A measure of cut wood" , "Thin rope" .)

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