Open clash that reveals the strength of one's hand (8)
I believe the answer is:
showdown
This might be a double definition.
'open clash that reveals' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.
'strength of one's hand' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?
'the' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for showdown that I've seen before include "Final confrontation as in western film" , "Final test, often found in westerns" , "Face-off" , "Dramatic conclusion" , "Denouement" .)