Half prepare to pack again in case with a gent? (3)

I believe the answer is:

rep

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

'again in case with a gent?' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'half prepare to pack' is the wordplay.
'to pack' says the answer is hidden in the clue (I've seen 'packing' mean this).
'REP' is hidden in the letters of 'half prepare'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rep that I've seen before include "Travelling salesman" , "Corded cloth for short theatrical group" , "Sort of theatre" , "what a draper usually sells" , "Theatre; fabric; salesman" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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.