Crossword Genius

Dash from Channel, moving east to west (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

elan

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

'dash' is the definition.
(I know that dash can be written as elan)

'channel moving east to west' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'east' could be 'e' (abbreviation) and 'e' is found within the answer.
The remaining letters 'lan' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'from' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for elan that I've seen before include "Impressive and energetic style" , "Vigour, panache" , "Vigour, style, enthusiasm" , "Style and verve" , "Stylish verve" .)

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