Crossword Genius

Animal in a role that gives limited protection (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

parapet

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'animal in a role that gives limited protection' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'animal in a role' is the wordplay.
'animal' becomes 'ape' (ape is a kind of animal).
'in' means one lot of letters goes inside another.
'a role' becomes 'part' (eg a part or role in a film).
'ape' inserted into 'part' is 'PARAPET'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for parapet that I've seen before include "Rooftop wall" , "Low protective wall along edge of roof or bridge" , "Balcony railing" , "wall, protective one" , "Defensive wall" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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