Crossword Genius

Restraint could be prelude to mating (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

check

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

'restraint' is the definition.
(check is a kind of restraint)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for check that I've seen before include "threat to king" , "Suppress" , "Verify, examine" , "Investigate; stop" , "Curb" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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.