Crossword Genius

Figure of importance to American defence (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pentagon

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'figure' is the definition.
(type of geometrical figure)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for pentagon that I've seen before include "military leadership" , "government HQ abroad" , "military installation" , "US government building" , "Five-sided shape" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail and The Irish News.
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