Crossword Genius

Naval jail and a potential inmate (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

brigand

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'a potential inmate' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'naval jail and' is the wordplay.
'naval jail' becomes 'brig' (I've seen this in another clue).
'brig'+'and'='BRIGAND'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for brigand that I've seen before include "Marauder" , "Criminal" , "Plunderer" , "thief" , "Robber - darn big (anag)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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