Crossword Genius

Courteous chaps irk workers (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

gallants

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

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

'irk workers' is the wordplay.
'irk' becomes 'gall' (synonyms).
'workers' becomes 'ants' (worker ants).
'gall'+'ants'='GALLANTS'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gallants that I've seen before include "Dashing, debonair young men" , "Men attentive to women - they sound brave" , "Brave and chivalrous men" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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