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It supports and gives comfort to a learner (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

easel

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'it supports and' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'comfort to a learner' is the wordplay.
'comfort' becomes 'ease' (synonyms).
'to a learner' becomes 'l' (as in a learner driver with L-plates on their car).
'ease'+'l'='EASEL'

'gives' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for easel that I've seen before include "stand for creativity" , "supporter of the arts" , "Painter's tripod" , "Tripod supporting a canvas" , "Wooden frame for an artist" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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