Crossword Genius

Put it back - it could be the painter's favourite shade of white (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

titanium

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This might be a double definition.

'put' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'it back it could be the painter's favourite shade of white' is the second definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for titanium that I've seen before include "Metal used in strong lightweight alloys" , "'Metallic element, Ti (8)'" , "Metal used in the manufacture of light alloys for aircraft parts" , "Hard metal" , "Metallic element used in strong lightweight alloys" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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