Crossword Genius

Foreign helper in middle of room, might you say? (2,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

au pair

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'foreign helper' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

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

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for au pair that I've seen before include "does she work for board?" , "Live-in home help" , "One helping with childcare" , "Foreign lodger doing housework" , "Foreign girl who does housework for her keep" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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