Crossword Genius

It could mean rain in an Asian republic (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

armenian

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'an asian republic' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.

'it could mean rain' is the wordplay.
'mean rain' anagrams to 'ARMENIAN'.
Though, I am not sure how this is indicated.

'in' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for armenian that I've seen before include "of the Southern Caucasus" , "language" , "ethnic group in Asia" , "Person from Yerevan, say" , "Eg, native of Yerevan" .)

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