Crossword Genius

Academic taking tea with an actress (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

teacher

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

'academic' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'tea with an actress' is the wordplay.
'with' says to put letters next to each other.
'an actress' becomes 'cher' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'tea'+'cher'='TEACHER'

'taking' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for teacher that I've seen before include "Chips, perhaps?" , "One who might give lines" , "The trainer" , "supply?" , "School educator" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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