Crossword Genius

Wee child, one locked in big building (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

bairn

'wee child' is the definition.
(bairn is a Scottish dialect term for a child)

'one locked in big building' is the wordplay.
'one' becomes 'I' (Roman numeral).
'locked in' indicates putting letters inside.
'big building' becomes 'barn' (building on a farm).
'i' going inside 'barn' is 'BAIRN'.

(Other definitions for bairn that I've seen before include "A Scottish child?" , "Child (of the North!)" , "Wee child" , "Northern child" , "Kid" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.