Dodgy dealer after keys to barrier (7)
I believe the answer is:
defence
'dodgy dealer' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both groups as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'after keys to barrier' is the wordplay.
'after' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'keys' becomes 'de' (I've seen this in other clues).
'to barrier' becomes 'fence' (fence is a kind of barrier).
'de' put next to 'fence' is 'DEFENCE'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for defence that I've seen before include "Protection; justification" , "The D in MoD" , "Military protection" , "Armed forces' role" , "Weaponry, possibly" .)