Idiot to damage vessel (8)

I believe the answer is:

crackpot

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

'idiot' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'damage vessel' is the wordplay.
'damage' becomes 'crack' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'vessel' becomes 'pot' (type of container).
'crack'+'pot'='CRACKPOT'

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for crackpot that I've seen before include "Ludicrous" , "crazy type" , "Damage utensil for informally eccentric person" , "Bats" , "Eccentric (colloq.)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app