Crossword Genius

Tall, thin layabout finishes drink (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lanky

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'tall' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'thin layabout finishes drink' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'thin' could be 'lank' (similar in meaning) and 'lank' is found within the answer.
A single letter 'y' remains which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lanky that I've seen before include "Inelegantly tall and thin" , "Awkwardly tall" , "Bony" , "Far from podgy" , "Tall and gangling" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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.