Crossword Genius

Cut back, catching horse by a curved path (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

parabola

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

This clue might be a double definition.

'cut back catching horse' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'a curved path' is the second definition.
(I've seen this before)

'by' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for parabola that I've seen before include "curved path" , "(Mathematical) curve" , "Symmetrical curve" , "Kind of curve" , "Type of curve" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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