Crossword Genius

The opposite of "hen," in a sense (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stag

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

'a sense' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how one could define the other.

'the opposite of hen in' is the wordplay.
'the' becomes 't' (the is pronounced as a 't' sound in some dialects).
'opposite of hen' becomes 'sag' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
't' inserted into 'sag' is 'STAG'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stag that I've seen before include "Investor" , "Game - speculator" , "speculator wanting quick profit" , "in a rut, perhaps?" , "Horned animal" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app