Crossword Genius

Cathy isn't exactly the spiteful type! (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

catty

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

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

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(Other definitions for catty that I've seen before include "Spiteful in feline way" , "Mean and spiteful" , "Backbiting" , "Bitchy as a feline" , "Malicious" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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