Doubtfully lift pipe down by carpet (5)
I believe the answer is:
shrug
'doubtfully lift' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how one could define the other.
'pipe down by carpet' is the wordplay.
'pipe down' becomes 'sh' (both can mean 'be quiet').
'by' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'carpet' becomes 'rug' (synonyms).
'sh'+'rug'='SHRUG'
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for shrug that I've seen before include "Expression of unconcern" , "Gesture of indifference or ignorance" , "women's wear" , "Gesture involving the shoulders" , "Show lack of concern" .)