Area of grass in a clearing (3)

I believe the answer is:

lea

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

'area' is the definition.
(lea is a kind of area)

'grass in a clearing' is the wordplay.
'LEA' is hidden within the letters.
However, I'm uncertain how this is indicated.

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lea that I've seen before include "Pasture, London river" , "River flowing through London" , "Grass area" , "Field" , "Grazing land" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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.