Crossword Genius

Teacher in old college wasting time (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sir

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

'teacher' is the definition.
(a male teacher might be addressed as 'sir')

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sir that I've seen before include "Term of address for a gentleman" , "Honorary male title" , "Respectful address for a man" , "address to teacher" , "Poet and novelist" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sunday Times and The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app