Crossword Genius

Jack may take Paul in (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tar

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

This might be a double definition.

'jack' is the first definition.
(both are informal terms for sailor)

'take paul in' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how one could define the other.

'may' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tar that I've seen before include "Thick, black and sticky liquid" , "Sailor; road surface" , "Informal sailor or road surfacing material" , "Informal sailor or coal distillation" , "Sailor (colloq.)" .)

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