Crossword Genius

Nice and neat 50% cutback for skittles (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ninepins

'skittles' is the definition.
('ninepin' can be a synonym of 'skittle')

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

(Other definitions for ninepins that I've seen before include "Form of skittles" , "Bowling targets" , "Skittles (IX, not V)" , "Bowling game" , "Skittles, IX objects to be knocked down" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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