Crossword Genius

With the exception of the local clique (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

barring

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

'with the exception of' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how they can define each other.

'local clique' is the wordplay.
'local' becomes 'bar' (local can mean someone's local pub).
'clique' becomes 'ring' (I've seen this in another clue).
'bar'+'ring'='BARRING'

'the' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for barring that I've seen is " Except for".)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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.