A top man in the building trade (6)
I believe the answer is:
slater
This could be a double definition.
'a top man' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both animals as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'building trade' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how they can define each other.
'in the' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for slater that I've seen before include "High-reaching worker perhaps" , "Roof-worker" , "Professional roof worker" , "Layer of roof slabs" , "High-up person" .)