Humming part of hornpipe pirates recalled (4)
I believe the answer is:
ripe
'humming part' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'of hornpipe pirates recalled' is the wordplay.
'of' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'recalled' is a reversal indicator.
'epir' is hidden within 'hornpipe pirates'.
'epir' written backwards gives 'RIPE'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for ripe that I've seen before include "daring" , "Opportune" , "Fully developed or matured" , "Mature and ready to be eaten" , "Fully grown, ready for eating" .)