Crossword Genius

Not returning with certain bald patch (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tonsure

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

'bald patch' is the definition.
'tonsure' can be an answer for 'patch' (I have seen 'bare patch' mean 'tonsure' so perhaps 'patch' could also mean 'tonsure'). I am unsure of the 'bald' bit.

'not returning with certain' is the wordplay.
'returning' says the letters should be written backwards.
'with' says to put letters next to each other.
'certain' becomes 'sure' (synonyms).
'not' backwards is 'ton'.
'ton'+'sure'='TONSURE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tonsure that I've seen before include "Monk's haircut" , "Monk's hair style" , "Monk's hairstyle" , "Shearing ?" , "Monk's bald spot" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.