Crossword Genius

Person taking holiday just before the fall? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tripper

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

'person taking holiday just before' is the wordplay.
'person' becomes 'per' (abbreviation).
'taking holiday just' becomes 'trip' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'before' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'per' after 'trip' is 'TRIPPER'.

'the' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tripper that I've seen before include "One hoping to enjoy journey" , "Someone out for day" , "Motorist just for fun" , "at risk of sustaining injury?" , "Excursionist" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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