Crossword Genius

Top removed from First Lady's vehicle (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lotus

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

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lotus that I've seen before include "Large water lily" , "In Greek mythology, a fruit which induces forgetfulness" , "Plant promoting forgetfulness" , "Kind of cross-legged position for meditation" , "Mythological fruit - lily" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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