A little house, locally (3)

I believe the answer is:
pub
This clue could be a double definition.
'a little' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.
'house locally' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for pub that I've seen before include "A familiar hostelry" , "Alehouse" , "Place to drink" , "free house?" , "Slug and Lettuce, perhaps" .)
