It has been soundly broken (7)

I believe the answer is:

barrier

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

'it has been soundly broken' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

This is the entire clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for barrier that I've seen before include "Fence; obstacle" , "Restraining wall" , "Impediment" , "fencing?" , "Object blocking passage" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app