Crossword Genius

What protects boat with fine finish on English river (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fender

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'what protects boat' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'fine finish on english river' is the wordplay.
'fine' becomes 'f' (abbreviation).
'finish' becomes 'end' (synonyms).
'on' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'english' becomes 'E' (abbreviation).
'river' becomes 'r' (abbreviation).
'f'+'end'+'e'+'r'='FENDER'

'with' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for fender that I've seen before include "A fire surround or American car bumper" , "Guard, around a fireplace perhaps" , "Feature of vehicle from 24 [US SAY]" , "Hearth-guard" , "Hearth guard also protects the ship's side" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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