Crossword Genius

Where the eagle really landed: a backward country? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

aerie

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

'where the eagle really landed' is the definition.
The answer is a location as well as being a singular noun. This is suggested by the definition.

'a backward country?' is the wordplay.
'backward' is a reversal indicator.
'country?' becomes 'eire' (Eire is an example).
'eire' in reverse letter order is 'erie'.
'a'+'erie'='AERIE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for aerie that I've seen before include "inaccessible place" , "Lofty nest (alternative spelling)" , "brood" , "lofty dwelling" , "Visionary" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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.