Crossword Genius

Mathematical snake (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

adder

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'snake' is the definition.
(adder is a kind of snake)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for adder that I've seen before include "An arithmetic snake" , "exhibit in the reptile house" , "accountant?" , "on country walks?" , "Snake (like an abacus?)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror and the Universal.
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