The sailor boys’ ball (3)

I believe the answer is:

orb

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

'ball' is the definition.
('orb' can be a synonym of 'ball')

'the sailor boys'' is the wordplay.
'ORB' is hidden in amongst the letters.
But, I'm uncertain how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for orb that I've seen before include "component of royal regalia" , "Spherical symbol of monarch's power" , "Item of royal regalia" , "Royal sphere (paired with 13 across)" , "ball with cross" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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