Crossword Genius

Dud keeping everyone up: right numpty (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dullard

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

'numpty' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'dud keeping everyone up right' is the wordplay.
'keeping' indicates putting letters inside.
'everyone' becomes 'all' (all people).
'up' says the letters should be written backwards (in down clue: letters go upwards).
'right' becomes 'r' (common abbreviation).
'all' written backwards gives 'lla'.
'lla'+'r'='llar'
'dud' going around 'llar' is 'DULLARD'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dullard that I've seen before include "A mentally slow person" , "Slow or stupid person" , "Boring person" , "Stupid fellow" , "Dope" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app