The fruit file? (9)
I believe the answer is:
raspberry
This clue could be a double definition.
'the fruit' is the first definition.
(raspberry is a kind of fruit)
'file?' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for raspberry that I've seen before include "rude riposte?" , "Fruit; rude sound" , "Fruit - expression of contempt" , "sign of disapproval" , "Bars Perry from having the fruit" .)