Crossword Genius

Male, fending off onset of infection, comfortably piddling (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

measly

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'piddling' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for measly that I've seen before include "Meagre in quantity (requiring 9 attention?)" , "Paltry - with spots?" , "description of child's complaint" , "on the meagre side" , "Miserable" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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