Crossword Genius

An intimate country? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

china

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

This could be a double definition.

'an intimate' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'country?' is the second definition.
(China is an example)

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for china that I've seen before include "It used to be called Cathay" , "Country; friend (slang)" , "High-quality porcelain" , "Fine earthenware" , "Fine porcelain from Orient?" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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