Crossword Genius

Pith helmet, best one (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

topi

'pith helmet' is the definition.
('topi' can be a synonym of 'pith helmet')

'best one' is the wordplay.
'best' becomes 'top' ('top' can be similar in meaning to 'best').
'one' becomes 'i' (Roman numeral).
'top'+'i'='TOPI'

(Other definitions for topi that I've seen before include "Pith-helmet" , "Tropical sun-hat" , "Large antelope; pith hat" , "Pith helmet" , "Item of clothing" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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