Crossword Genius

One holding the line? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

reel

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'one' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'holding the line?' is the wordplay.
'holding' becomes 'ree' (I can't justify this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'the line?' becomes 'l' (used when specifying particular lines from a poem).
'ree'+'l'='REEL'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for reel that I've seen before include "Lively dance or fishing rod controller" , "Dance; feel giddy" , "The angler pulls in his line using this" , "Highland dance" , "Dance - sway - cotton holder" .)

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