The village villain? (3)

I believe the answer is:

lag

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'villain?' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't see how one could define the other.

'the village' is the wordplay.
'LAG' is hidden within the letters.
However, I am uncertain how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lag that I've seen before include "Protect from cold" , "person inside" , "Delay" , "Provide protection" , "Loiter" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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