Crossword Genius

Lily, perspicacious about Virginia (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

savage

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'lily' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'perspicacious about virginia' is the wordplay.
'perspicacious' becomes 'sage' (I've seen this in another clue).
'about' indicates putting letters inside.
'virginia' becomes 'va' (US state abbreviation).
'sage' enclosing 'va' is 'SAVAGE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for savage that I've seen before include "Uncivilised and fierce" , "Ferocious" , "Fierce and untamed" , "Wild, untamed" , "Fierce, cruel" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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