Crossword Genius

Figure fractionally over the line? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

numerator

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

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for numerator that I've seen before include "quantity of parts?" , "Upper part of fraction" , "Top half of 1/2 , for example" , "Figure going over a line" , "the superior figure" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph, The Sun and The Independent.
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