Like bristly growth displayed by learner in squat (7)

I believe the answer is:

stubbly

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'like bristly growth displayed' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'by learner in squat' is the wordplay.
'by learner' becomes 'l' (as in a learner driver with L-plates on their car. I am not sure about the 'by' bit.).
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'squat' becomes 'stubby' (synonyms).
'l' going within 'stubby' is 'STUBBLY'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for stubbly that I've seen is " not clean-shaven".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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