The macho type, but a companion (5)

I believe the answer is:

butch

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

'the macho' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'but a companion' is the wordplay.
'a companion' becomes 'ch' (Companion of Honour).
'but'+'ch'='BUTCH'

'type' is the link.
I am not very happy about this link. It may be part of another bit of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for butch that I've seen before include "Tough" , "Acting as a male (colloq.)" , "Macho" , "Aggressively masculine" , "Markedly masculine" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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.