Crossword Genius

Only punishment feared by the prisoner? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

solitary

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'only' is the definition.
(I know that only can be written as solitary)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for solitary that I've seen before include "Existing alone" , "Alone, single" , "punishment" , "friendless" , "not a Companion" .)

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