Bad, losing journalist, but holds fire (4)
I believe the answer is:
wick
This might be a double definition.
'bad losing journalist' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how they can define each other.
'holds fire' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'but' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for wick that I've seen before include "Caithness fishing town - part of candle" , "Cord conveying liquid by capillary action" , "Candle fibre" , "Beginners" , "that burns down?" .)