Crossword Genius

Italian family held back by Thai family (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mafia

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

'italian family' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both groups as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I can't see?

'held back by thai family' is the wordplay.
'back by' is a reversal indicator.
'held' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'aifam' is hidden in the letters of 'thai family'.
'aifam' back-to-front is 'MAFIA'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mafia that I've seen before include "organised criminals" , "Sicilian secret society" , "International crime organisation originating in Sicily" , "Secret criminal organisation" , "The Sicily mob" .)

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