Crossword Genius

Flags outside the home (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

patio

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

This clue might be a double definition.

'flags outside' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

'home' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'the' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for patio that I've seen before include "Paved area outside house" , "Inner courtyard" , "Garden terrace" , "Hard surface" , "inner court" .)

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