Crossword Genius

Pledges would-be queens (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pawns

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue could be a double definition.

'pledges' is the first definition.
(pawn is a kind of pledge)

'would-be queens' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pawns that I've seen before include "made pledges" , "Chess pieces" , "Puts into hock" , "Minor chessmen" , "Men on board" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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.