Thick section in garden seat (5)

I believe the answer is:

dense

'thick' is the definition.
('dense' can be a synonym of 'thick')

'section in garden seat' is the wordplay.
'section' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'DENSE' is hidden in the letters of 'in garden seat'.

(Other definitions for dense that I've seen before include "Stupid, crowded together" , "Stupid; compacted" , "Tightly packed - stupid" , "Compressed - obtuse" , "Needs (anag) -- thick" .)

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.