Crossword Genius

Now ma, what are you? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

woman

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

'are you?' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'now ma' is the wordplay.
'now ma' anagrams to 'WOMAN'.
Though, I'm not sure how this is indicated.

'what' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for woman that I've seen before include "With 1a [NEW] a freedom fighter" , "Lady" , "See 16" , "Adult female" , "Mature female" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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