Not giving much out, like Spooner’s torch? (5-6)

I believe the answer is:

tight-lipped

'not giving much out' is the definition.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for tight-lipped that I've seen before include "Uncommunicative" , "Taciturn" , "Determinedly reticent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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