Crossword Genius

Copper fan, perhaps, one used to screw in place? (9,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

butterfly nut

'one used to screw in place?' is the definition.
(nut used to secure something)

'copper fan' is the wordplay.
'copper' becomes 'butterfly' (copper is a type of butterfly).
'fan' becomes 'nut' (both can mean an enthusiast).
'butterfly'+'nut'='BUTTERFLY NUT'

'perhaps' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for butterfly nut that I've seen before include "One screwed up" , "Lepidopterist" , "Two-winged fastener" , "helping to make connections?" .)

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.