Washing may depend on it (11)

I believe the answer is:

clothesline

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'it' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for clothesline that I've seen before include "It may be used after 12 18" , "Where washing dries" , "Washing supporter" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail and The Irish News.

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