Crossword Genius

Possible dearth of fine cord (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

thread

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'fine cord' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'possible dearth' is the wordplay.
'dearth' can be anagrammed to 'THREAD'.
But, I'm not clear how this is indicated.

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for thread that I've seen before include "Messages on a theme" , "Essential element" , "Storyline" , "The rib going around a screw" , "Fine cord of twisted fibres" .)

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app