Crossword Genius

There's nothing like it on bone — is much initially cut? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nonesuch

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

'it on bone is much initially cut?' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'there's nothing like' is the wordplay.
'there's' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'nothing' becomes 'none' (I've seen this before).
'like' becomes 'such' (I've seen this in another clue).
'none' put next to 'such' is 'NONESUCH'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nonesuch that I've seen before include "Excellent thing" , "Unique type" , "unparalleled" , "a thing unequalled in olden days" , "Nonpareil" .)

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