Play the first card after a misdeal? (4)
I believe the answer is:
lead
'play the first card' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'a misdeal?' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'a' is present in the answer.
The remaining letters 'led' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).
'after' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for lead that I've seen before include "conductor of electricity" , "Principal performer" , "Be in charge of, element" , "Go first" , "Guide, direct" .)