Crossword Genius

The basics in meteorology (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

elements

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

'the basics' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for elements that I've seen before include "Rudiments of a subject" , "First principles of the weather" , "Constituents, ingredients" , "Component parts" , "fire and water, say" .)

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