Crossword Genius

Sleeping topless can be awkward (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lumbering

'awkward' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'sleeping topless' is the wordplay.
'sleeping' becomes 'slumbering' (synonyms).
'topless' means to remove the first letter.
'slumbering' with its initial letter taken off is 'LUMBERING'.

'can be' is the link.

(Other definitions for lumbering that I've seen before include "Awkward" , "Ponderous" , "Moving in heavy clumsy way" .)

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.