Rods securing frame in dormitory (8)
I believe the answer is:
barracks
'rods' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'frame in dormitory' is the wordplay.
'frame' becomes 'rack' (rack is a kind of frame).
'in' indicates putting letters inside.
'dormitory' becomes 'bars' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'rack' inserted inside 'bars' is 'BARRACKS'.
'securing' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for barracks that I've seen before include "men who fight in houses here" , "Heckles" , "Demonstrates hostility - army quarters" , "Jeers in soldiers' quarters" , "Military building(s)" .)