Public behind attempt to win playing trick (9)

I believe the answer is:

overtrump

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'attempt to win playing trick' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'public behind' is the wordplay.
'public' becomes 'overt' (associated in meaning).
'behind' becomes 'rump' (synonyms).
'overt'+'rump'='OVERTRUMP'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for overtrump that I've seen before include "use a superior club?" , "better" , "Excel at trick" , "Win trick by playing higher card" , "play ace?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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