Crossword Genius

Just the thing to wear for patients without pants (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

tie

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

'pants' 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?

'just the thing to wear for patients without' is the wordplay.
'TIE' is hidden in amongst the letters.
However, I am unsure how this is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tie that I've seen before include "11 [KNOT]" , "Almost level" , "Bind; knot" , "Drawn score" , "Restrict; link" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app