Crossword Genius

Awkward pretence with what isn't actually a diamond? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

shambling

'awkward' is the definition.
(shambling can mean clumsy or awkward)

'pretence with what isn't actually a diamond?' is the wordplay.
'pretence' becomes 'sham' (I've seen this before).
'with' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'what isn't actually a diamond?' becomes 'bling' (bling can mean fake jewellery).
'sham'+'bling'='SHAMBLING'

(Other definitions for shambling that I've seen before include "Proceeding inefficiently" , "Shuffling along" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.