Crossword Genius

Butterfly is someone looked up to by Lieutenant Pinkerton? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

admiral

I believe this clue is a double definition.

'butterfly' is the first definition.
(admiral is a kind of butterfly)

'someone looked up to by lieutenant pinkerton?' is the second definition.
(Lieutenant Pinkerton is a fictional naval officer)

'is' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for admiral that I've seen before include "Highest naval rank" , "Eg, Nelson" , "Red butterfly at sea?" , "Red butterfly in charge of the fleet" , "Brightly coloured butterfly" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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