They're crossed (being in crosswords) (6)

I believe the answer is:

swords

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

'crosswords' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I cannot understand how they can define each other.

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

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for swords that I've seen before include "Weapons; a Tarot suit" , "Fighting blades" , "Weapons from north Co Dublin?" , "Eg, rapiers, sabres" , "Steel weapons" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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