Crossword Genius

Little battleship in trial of strength? (3-2-3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tug-of-war

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

This might be a double definition.

'little battleship' is the first definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.

'trial of strength?' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tug-of-war that I've seen before include "Sporting test of strength" , "Pulling contest" , "Contest of strength" .)

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