Crossword Genius

Diminutive whistler (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ref

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This clue might be a double definition.

'diminutive' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how they can define each other.

'whistler' is the second definition.
(a referee blows a whistle)

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ref that I've seen before include "In brief, he controls a soccer match" , "Middleman needing cards" , "A diminutive umpire in soccer or boxing" , "'Game judge, in short (3)'" , "Sports official (abbrev.)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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