Distinctly flushed (5)
I believe the answer is:
ruddy
'flushed' is the definition.
(synonyms)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for ruddy that I've seen before include "Rosy" , "Healthily red in colour" , "healthy-looking" , "Glowing pink" , "Looking healthy" .)