Measures section of totem, possibly (6)

I believe the answer is:

tempos

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'measures' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I can't understand how one could define the other.

'section of totem possibly' is the wordplay.
'section of' indicates a hidden word.
'TEMPOS' is hidden within 'totem possibly'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tempos that I've seen before include "Times" , "Musical speeds" , "Speeds at which compositions are played" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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