A way to hold (5)
I believe the answer is:
hatch
This could be a double definition.
'a way' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
'hold' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I can't see?
'to' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for hatch that I've seen before include "Movable cover on ship's deck - batten it down" , "Sit on eggs" , "Enter the world" , "Emerge from egg - opening" , "Access opening" .)