Crossword Genius

Dependable, like a good base for structure (4,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rock solid

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

'a good base for structure' is the definition.
I know nothing about this answer so I cannot judge whether it can be defined by this definition.

'dependable' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'dependable' could be 'solid' (I've seen this in another clue) and 'solid' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'rock' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

'like' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rock solid that I've seen before include "Guaranteed" , "Completely firm" , "Absolutely settled and reliable" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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