Crossword Genius

Windlass disturbed catnaps (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

capstan

'windlass' is the definition.
(capstan is a kind of windlass)

'disturbed catnaps' is the wordplay.
'disturbed' indicates an anagram.
'catnaps' with letters rearranged gives 'CAPSTAN'.

(Other definitions for capstan that I've seen before include "revolver" , "item of winding gear" , "boat's winding gear" , "Cylinder for winding ropes/cables" , "Device winding in rope" .)

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