Pupil missing a prize (4)
I believe the answer is:
ward
'pupil' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?
'missing a prize' is the wordplay.
'missing' is a deletion indicator.
'prize' becomes 'award' (synonyms).
'award' with 'a' removed is 'WARD'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for ward that I've seen before include "Minor in the charge of a guardian" , "Councillor's area" , "Local administrative district" , "Hospital room; part of borough" , "Separate room" .)