Mouse-catchers coming up short in Sparta (5)
I believe the answer is:
traps
'mouse-catchers coming up' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.
'in sparta' is the wordplay.
'TRAPS' is hidden back-to-front within the letters.
However, I am unsure how this is indicated.
'short' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for traps that I've seen before include "Devices to catch, animals say" , "Catches" , "tricks" , "The pitfalls" , "bunkers" .)