Crossword Genius

Three might 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 might put you' is the wordplay.
'three' can be anagrammed to 'ETHER'.
However, I am not clear 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 "Volatile organic liquid once used as a general anaesthetic" , "Anaesthetic is, strangely, there" , "Anaesthetic liquid; clear sky" , "Light liquid used as anaesthetic" , "Colourless liquid used as a solvent" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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