It's in fashion a lot for communications (5)
I believe the answer is:
modem
'lot for communications' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'it's in fashion a' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'fashion' could be 'mode' (synonyms) and 'mode' is found in the answer.
A single letter 'm' remains which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for modem that I've seen before include "Internet connection" , "Unit connecting computer to phone line" , "Phone-to-computer connector" , "Computer link" , "Device connecting computer to telephone system" .)