Crossword Genius

A little eccentric, hippy aura (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

chi

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

'a little eccentric hippy aura' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how one could define the other.

'a little eccentric hippy aura' is the wordplay.
'a little' indicates a hidden word (a little bit of the clue).
'CHI' can be found hidden inside 'eccentric hippy aura'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chi that I've seen before include "Chinese life-force" , "The life force, according to traditional Chinese medicine" , "character from Euripides?" , "In Chinese medicine, the life force inherent in all things" , "seen in Greek writing" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app