Bond, at heart is decent, homely and gentle (6)

I believe the answer is:

cement

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'bond' is the definition.
(cement can mean to stick or bond)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for cement that I've seen before include "bind together" , "Ingredient in mortar" , "Stuff that binds or bonds" , "Ingredient of concrete" , "Stick together - substance used by a builder" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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