Crossword Genius

Stepfather is a ship's officer (6,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

second mate

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

This clue could be a double definition.

'stepfather' is the first definition.
Both the definition and answer are singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'a ship's officer' is the second definition.
(another term for the second officer of a ship)

'is' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for second mate that I've seen before include "one involved in bigamy?" , "Craftsman, perhaps" , "Naval officer" .)

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