Crossword Genius

Pandemic? It surely holds country back (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rustic

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

'pandemic? it surely holds' is the wordplay.
'RUSTIC' is hidden backwards in amongst the letters.
But, I am not sure how the hidden word is indicated.

(Other definitions for rustic that I've seen before include "Rural, country" , "unrefined" , "Rural, countrified" , "Relating to the countryside" , "Quaintly countrified" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.