Crossword Genius

Flattened boss to catch the leader (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nailhead

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

'flattened boss' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'catch the leader' is the wordplay.
'catch' becomes 'nail' (nail can mean to catch or arrest).
'the leader' becomes 'head' (head is a kind of leader).
'nail'+'head'='NAILHEAD'

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nailhead that I've seen before include "As hit by the carpenter" , "that may come under the hammer" , "Decorative device; had alien (anagram)" , "Ornament; where the hammer hits" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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.