Crossword Genius

Cutting rhubarb? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

barb

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

'cutting' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how one could define the other.

'rhubarb?' is the wordplay.
'BARB' is hidden within the letters.
But, I am not sure how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for barb that I've seen before include "part of a habit" , "criticism" , "Hurtful comment" , "Small prong on larger point" , "Pointed part - gibe" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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