Left one like cat in escape option (8)
I believe the answer is:
lifeline
'escape option' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.
'left one like cat' is the wordplay.
'left' becomes 'l' (common abbreviation).
'one' becomes 'i' (Roman numeral).
'like cat' becomes 'feline' (I've seen this before. I am not sure about the 'like' bit.).
'l'+'i'+'feline'='LIFELINE'
'in' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for lifeline that I've seen before include "Essential support (read by palmists?)" , "Means of escape" , "Vital support?" , "Essential means of support" , "Rope to haul person out of water - vital link" .)