Crossword Genius

This cuts absence from work, reducing it by a third (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sickle

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

This clue might be a double definition.

'this cuts absence from work reducing it' is the first definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'a third' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'by' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sickle that I've seen before include "Corn-cutting tool" , "field-worker being a trimmer" , "Cutting farming tool" , "Farm implement" , "Harvesting implement" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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