Crossword Genius

Fearful and dull, it turned up (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

timid

'fearful' is the definition.
('timid' is associated in meaning with 'fearful')

'dull it turned up' is the wordplay.
'dull' becomes 'dim' ('dim' can be a synonym of 'dull').
'turned up' is a reversal indicator.
'dim'+'it'='dimit'
'dimit' written backwards gives 'TIMID'.

'and' is the link.

(Other definitions for timid that I've seen before include "Mouse" , "Shrinking" , "Easily scared" , "Inclined to avoid people" , "Gutless" .)

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.