Maligned fairy tale character here where stream rises (4)
I believe the answer is:
wolf
'maligned fairy tale character here' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.
'stream rises' is the wordplay.
'stream' becomes 'flow' (synonyms).
'rises' shows that the letters should be reversed in order.
'flow' reversed gives 'WOLF'.
'where' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for wolf that I've seen before include "Predatory canine animal" , "Carnivore -- breed of 13 down" , "Lothario" , "Predator that hunts in packs" , "Devour ravenously" .)