Crossword Genius

Squalid type briefly performed (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sordid

'squalid' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'type briefly performed' is the wordplay.
'type' becomes 'sort' (I've seen this before).
'briefly' means to remove the last letter.
'performed' becomes 'did' ('do' can be a synonym of 'perform').
'sort' with its last letter taken off is 'sor'.
'sor'+'did'='SORDID'

(Other definitions for sordid that I've seen before include "Filthy - base" , "Squalid - base" , "Squalid and depraved" , "Squalid and disgusting" , "'Sleazy, squalid (6)'" .)

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.