Crossword Genius

Troublesome tot to munch meagrely (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pickle

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

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pickle that I've seen before include "A preserve or an informal predicament" , "Preserved vegetable of informal plight" , "Marinate" , "tight spot" , "imp" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.
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