So-called 'dear' runs off after six-footer (9)
I believe the answer is:
antelopes
'so-called dear runs off after six-footer' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.
'runs off after six-footer' is the wordplay.
'runs off' becomes 'elopes' ('elope' can be a synonym of 'run off').
'after' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'six footer' becomes 'ant' (an ant has six feet).
'elopes' after 'ant' is 'ANTELOPES'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for antelopes that I've seen before include "Springboks, say" , "Wild animals" , "Gazelles, impalas etc" .)