Crossword Genius

Stubborn fellow deceived about river vessel (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hardliner

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

'stubborn fellow deceived' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'about river vessel' is the wordplay.
'about river' becomes 'hard' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'vessel' becomes 'liner' (liner is a kind of vessel).
'hard'+'liner'='HARDLINER'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for hardliner that I've seen before include "dogmatic type" , "Doctrinaire type" , "Resolute advocate" , "One pursuing an uncompromising policy" , "Uncompromising advocate" .)

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.