Crossword Genius

Evaluator's a blockhead, always hesitating (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

assayer

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'evaluator's' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'a blockhead always hesitating' is the wordplay.
'a blockhead' becomes 'ass' (I've seen this in another clue).
'always' becomes 'ay' (archaic term for 'always').
'hesitating' becomes 'er'.
'ass'+'ay'+'er'='ASSAYER'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for assayer that I've seen before include "Analyser of minerals" , "Metal/ore tester" , "Tester of fine metal" , "One tests minerals" , "I'll carry out a test" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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