Crossword Genius

Greek philosopher greeting power flower (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hippo

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

'greek philosopher' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how one could define the other.

'greeting power flower' is the wordplay.
'greeting' becomes 'hi' (hi is a kind of greeting).
'power' becomes 'p' (symbol in physics).
'flower' becomes 'Po' (Italian river).
'hi'+'p'+'po'='HIPPO'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for hippo that I've seen before include "Aquatic pachyderm" , "Semiaquatic animal" , "One thick-skinned" , "Augustine looked after" , "Aquatic creature" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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.