The tool was returned (3)

I believe the answer is:

saw

'the tool' is the definition.
(saw is a kind of tool)

'was returned' is the wordplay.
'returned' is a reversal indicator.
'was' back-to-front is 'SAW'.

(Other definitions for saw that I've seen before include "Cutting blade" , "Implement for cutting wood" , "Viewed; adage" , "Grasped" , "Noticed; cutter" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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