Crossword Genius

As served in the late afternoon? (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tea

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

'as' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

'in the late afternoon?' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'TEA' is hidden within 'late afternoon'.

'served' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tea that I've seen before include "A light meal - eat up" , "TREE" , "Light afternoon meal" , "Afternoon meal; drink" , "Strangely, ate this drink" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app