Crossword Genius

Primitive punishment befitting a burgler? (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cat

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

'primitive punishment' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'befitting a burgler?' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'a' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'ct' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cat that I've seen before include "Tabby" , "Feline mammal" , "See 23" , "Pussy" , "Grimalkin" .)

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