Crossword Genius

It's on the stove, but not exactly hot? (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hob

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

'it's on the stove' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'not exactly hot?' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'not' could be 'o' (I've seen this in other clues) and 'o' is located in the answer.
'hot?' could be 'h' (abbreviation eg on taps) and 'h' is found within the answer.
A single letter 'b' remains which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'but' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for hob that I've seen before include "Flat metal shelf at side of fireplace" , "Cooking range" , "Top of one of 8 down" , "Cooker top" , "Hot-plate" .)

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