Less like a hyphen (5)

I believe the answer is:

minus

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

'less' is the definition.
(both can mean take away)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for minus that I've seen before include "Deprived of" , "deficiency" , "(Of temperature) below zero" , "Lacking; below zero" , "Negative sign - negative thing" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.

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