Crossword Genius

Sit up when it is abbreviated (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tis

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

'when it is abbreviated' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'sit up' is the wordplay.
'up' says the letters should be written in reverse (in down clue: letters go upwards).
'sit' backwards is 'TIS'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tis that I've seen before include "Contraction of it is" , "For poet, that's" , "Sequel to "Angela's Ashes"" , "... the season to be jolly" , "It is shortened" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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