Crossword Genius

Playing roles one hasn't won (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

loser

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

'one hasn't won' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how one could define the other.

'playing roles' is the wordplay.
'playing' is an anagram indicator.
'roles' anagrammed gives 'LOSER'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for loser that I've seen before include "lemon" , "A failure, also-ran" , "Failed competitor" , "Unsuccessful competitor" , "One who regularly fails" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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