Crossword Genius

Rugged comedian swallowing favourite drug (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

carpeted

'rugged' is the definition.
(with a rug or carpet)

'comedian swallowing favourite drug' is the wordplay.
'comedian' becomes 'card' (card can mean a humorous person).
'swallowing' indicates putting letters inside.
'favourite' becomes 'pet' (synonyms).
'drug' becomes 'e' (E is another name for ecstasy).
'pet'+'e'='pete'
'card' enclosing 'pete' is 'CARPETED'.

(Other definitions for carpeted that I've seen before include "Wigged" , "Reprimanded" , "With fitted rugs" , "dressed down" , "provided with rug?" .)

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