Run(g)s (7)

I believe the answer is:

ladders

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'rungs' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?

This is the entire clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ladders that I've seen before include "Hose runners" , "Runs in hosiery" , "Climbing aids" , "Go up them on board" , "they help people to get up" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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