Crossword Genius

Professor could be rocking (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

chair

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'professor' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chair that I've seen before include "What professor has" , "Backed seat for one" , "Something with legs" , "Senior academic post" , "Academic position" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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