Crossword Genius

Wicked thing loves going inside for kiss and cuddle (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

canoodle

'kiss and cuddle' is the definition.
(to canoodle is to kiss and cuddle)

'wicked thing loves going inside' is the wordplay.
'wicked thing' becomes 'candle' (something with a wick).
'loves' becomes 'oo' (two O's - 'love' means zero in tennis).
'going inside' indicates putting letters inside.
'candle' going around 'oo' is 'CANOODLE'.

'for' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for canoodle that I've seen before include "spoon" , "Behave amorously" , "Fondle" , "Hug and kiss" , "Pet" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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