Crossword Genius

Depression, at length, can be merely routine (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rut

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

I believe this is a quadruple definition!!

'depression' is the first definition.
(I know that rut is a type of channel)

'at' is a link.

'length can' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'be' is the third definition.
(rutting is a kind of being)

'merely routine' is the fourth definition.
'rut' can be an answer for 'routine' (being stuck in a rut is being stuck in a routine). I am unsure of the 'merely' bit.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rut that I've seen before include "Wheel-furrow" , "animal passion" , "Well-worn track" , "Oestrus" , "hazard in the road" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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