Crossword Genius

Kind of key used in a case of staff shortage? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

skeleton

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

I believe this is a triple definition!

'kind of key' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)

'used in' acts as a link.

'a case' is the second definition.
(thesaurus)

'of' acts as a link.

'staff shortage?' is the third definition.
'skeleton' can be an answer for 'staff' (I have seen 'tiny staff' mean 'skeleton' so perhaps 'staff' could also mean 'skeleton'). I am unsure of the 'shortage?' bit.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for skeleton that I've seen before include "Kind of key" , "Basic scheme" , "Scheme reduced to its essential elements" , "one doesn't want found in cupboard" , "emaciated type" .)

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app