Crossword Genius

Its occupants collared pinching grain? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dovecote

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'grain?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how one could define the other.

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dovecote that I've seen before include "Domestic bird shelter" , "Home for domesticated pigeons" , "Shelter for domesticated pigeons" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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