Crossword Genius

Smaller than a tiny metal box (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tin

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

'box' is the definition.
(I've seen this in other clues)

'smaller than a tiny metal' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'metal' could be 'in' (In is an example) and 'in' is found in the answer.
A single letter 't' remains which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tin that I've seen before include "Metal element" , "Atomic number 50" , "Silvery white metal" , "Silvery metallic element" , "Ready" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.