Much older partner lends character, somehow (6,8)

I believe the answer is:

cradle snatcher

'much older partner' is the definition.
(someone with a much younger partner)

'lends character somehow' is the wordplay.
'somehow' indicates anagramming the letters.
'lends'+'character'='lendscharacter'
'lendscharacter' with letters rearranged gives 'CRADLE-SNATCHER'.

(Another definition for cradle snatcher that I've seen is " One having a relationship with a much younger partner".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.