Crossword Genius

Feathered, it may skim the water surface (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

oar

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'surface' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for oar that I've seen before include "Bladed pole" , "It ends in blade" , "Use it to move a boat" , "Rowing device" , "Rower's flat blade" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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