Crossword Genius

Backtrack, repeatedly refusing to hold book on quiet bridge (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ivy

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

'bridge' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ivy that I've seen before include "Clinging evergreen" , "Parasitical plant, companion to holly" , "Evergreen climber" , "Girl" , "Hedera helix" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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