Thanks a lot for the titfer (3)
I believe the answer is:
tam
'the titfer' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.
'thanks a lot' is the wordplay.
'thanks' becomes 'ta' (UK informal version of 'thank you').
'a lot' becomes 'm' (**).
'ta'+'m'='TAM'
'for' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for tam that I've seen before include "Turn over the mat for a cap" , "Scots hat" , "Ratings compiled on TV listener numbers" , "TV audience ratings" , "Scotsman's cap" .)