Crossword Genius

European chap in battle that is uglier on the flanks (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

monsieur

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

'european chap in battle that is uglier on the flanks' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'european chap in battle that is uglier on' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'european' could be 'eur' (abbreviation for European) and 'eur' is found within the answer.
'chap' could be 'si' and 'si' is found in the answer.
'on' is present in the answer.
A single letter 'm' remains which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for monsieur that I've seen before include "French title of respect" , "A French mister" , "French gentleman" , "Belgian's address" , "Frenchman" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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