Crossword Genius

Band splits up (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

strap

'band' is the definition.
(strap is a kind of band)

'splits up' is the wordplay.
'splits' becomes 'parts' ('part' can be a synonym of 'split').
'up' shows that the letters should be reversed in order (in down clue: letters go upwards).
'parts' backwards is 'STRAP'.

(Other definitions for strap that I've seen before include "Tie" , "something to hang on to" , "Parts of leather belt" , "Parts (anag.)" , "e.g. Belt" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.