Crossword Genius

Staff punishment tool (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cane

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This clue might be a double definition.

'staff' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)

'punishment tool' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cane that I've seen before include "Strong, flexible stem" , "Beat - bamboo - stick" , "A stick to lean on" , "Strong stem for to allow a plant to climb" , "Hollow stem of wood" .)

I've seen this clue in The Hindu.
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