In China, 2000 and 2012 are tedious (6)

I believe the answer is:

dragon

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'in china 2000 and 2012' is the definition.
(two years of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for dragon that I've seen before include "Virago" , "Fierce woman" , "TV investor" , "chased by addicts" , "Mythical fire-breather" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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