Word used in making a big arrest? (5)
I believe the answer is:
avast
'word used' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.
'a big arrest?' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'a' is present in the answer.
'big' could be 'vast' (similar in meaning) and 'vast' is located in the answer.
No letters remain.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).
'in making' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for avast that I've seen before include "Stop! (naut.)" , "order for tar" , "shout stopping the ship" , "Stop sailing" , "Stop on board" .)