Cryptic Stuff

[not_for_sale2025]

While it was done some years ago I see, I thought I would try a cryptic crossword-like thread for fun and to try and boost a little more interest here. I made up the below question for anyone interested in such a challenge. I thought the first person to get it correct might come up with the next question. A clue though - if you copy one from a newspaper or magazine etc., the answer can often be found on the internet. I can explain the answer for anyone who asks. 🙂

The prisoner at the cave would not stand for the electrically charged droplets of water.

(12 letters)

[countessalmirena]

No, not basic.

Testing programme changes universal rating for nothing, harking back to a classic swell (5)

_ _ l i _

There’s a charade, letter substitution, abbreviation, charade letter, reversal indicator…

The whole def harks back to older definitions.

[not_for_sale2025]

Relic.....