Crossword Genius

Former New York official smuggling diamonds? Damn! (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ruddy

'damn' is the definition.
(both are mild expletives)

'former new york official smuggling diamonds?' is the wordplay.
'former new york official' becomes 'Rudy' (Rudy Giuliani, former mayor of New York).
'smuggling' indicates putting letters inside (some letters smuggled inside).
'diamonds?' becomes 'd' (abbreviation in bridge say).
'rudy' enclosing 'd' is 'RUDDY'.

(Other definitions for ruddy that I've seen before include "Reddish; -- duck" , "Bright" , "blasted" , "Rosy" , "Healthily red; sort of duck" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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.