Couple getting close before the late shift (7)
I believe the answer is:
nightie
'the late shift' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I don't see?
'couple getting close' is the wordplay.
'couple' becomes 'tie' (both can mean to join).
'getting' means one lot of letters go next to another.
'close' becomes 'nigh' (similar in meaning).
'tie' after 'nigh' is 'NIGHTIE'.
'before' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for nightie that I've seen before include "Bed attire (colloq.)" , "Clothing worn in retirement?" , "Bedtime wear" , "Female bedwear" , "Skimpy attire" .)