This will soothe female leaving work (7)
I believe the answer is:
unction
This clue could be a double definition.
'this will soothe female' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'work' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I don't see?
'leaving' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for unction that I've seen before include "Religious rite of anointing with oil" , "Anointment with oil" , "Oiliness" , "excessive charm and affectation" , "Balm - oily charm" .)