Crossword Genius

Gripping concerning layers in heap (10)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

prehensile

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'gripping' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'concerning layers in heap' is the wordplay.
'concerning' becomes 're' (both can mean on a particular topic).
'layers' becomes 'hens' (I've seen this in another clue).
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'heap' becomes 'pile' (synonyms).
're'+'hens'='rehens'
'rehens' going within 'pile' is 'PREHENSILE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for prehensile that I've seen before include "Capable of grasping" , "Adapted for gripping" , "making a clutch possible" , "Able to grasp an object -- Helen is rep (anag)" , "Able to grasp - her in sleep (anag)" .)

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