Crossword Genius

Very pious, but they don't take orders (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

nuns

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'orders' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for nuns that I've seen before include "women in order" , "Holy sisters" , "Religious sisters" , "Sisters in order" , "Women in religious vocations" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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