Crossword Genius

Only half dance in prison (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

can

'prison' is the definition.
(the can is American slang for prison)

'only half dance' is the wordplay.
'only half' suggests halving the letters.
'dance' becomes 'cancan' (cancan is a kind of dance).
'cancan' with half the letters taken is 'CAN'.

'in' is the link.

(Other definitions for can that I've seen before include "Airtight metal container" , "Container (e.g. beer)" , "Possesses ability" , "Is able; container" , "Cooler" .)

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.