Crossword Genius

Three could put you to sleep (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ether

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

'sleep' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how they can define each other.

'three could put you' is the wordplay.
'three' anagrams to 'ETHER'.
Though, I am unsure how the anagram is indicated.

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ether that I've seen before include "Anaesthetic; clear sky (poetic)" , "Chemical solvent" , "Imaginary interstellar medium" , "The gas is there, oddly" , "It could knock you out" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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