The best of Chinese literature (5)

I believe the answer is:

elite

'the best' is the definition.
(elite can mean the very best of a group)

'of chinese literature' is the wordplay.
'of' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'ELITE' is hidden in the letters of 'chinese literature'.

(Other definitions for elite that I've seen before include "Superior group in society" , "Choice; best" , "First-class" , "A privileged or select group" , "Select part" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish 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.