Crossword Genius

The Maori to slam motherless inventor

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tesla

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'inventor' is the definition.
(scientist Nikola Tesla)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tesla that I've seen before include "Physicist" , "Physics unit" , "Californian company specialising in electric cars" , "electrical unit" , "Inventor" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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