Crossword Genius

Prematurely withdraw a bond (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bail

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

'bond' is the definition.
(I know that bond can be written as bail)

'prematurely withdraw a' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'a' is present in the answer.
The remaining letters 'bil' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bail that I've seen before include "Temporary release of one awaiting trial" , "Security for release - part of a wicket" , "Crosspiece in cricket wicket" , "Money lodged to secure release pending trial" , "Temporary release of an accused person on conditions" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.
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