Crossword Genius

Fishnets that could assist fishing vessel’s process by seconds (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hosiery

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

'process by seconds' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how they can define each other.

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for hosiery that I've seen before include "Socks, tights, etc" , "Stocking" , "the object of much leg-pulling" , "Underwear items such as stockings" , "Tights and the like" .)

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