The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word SHIRKED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
H
I
R
K
E
D
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Dodged" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case dodged = shirked.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SHIRKED mean?
SHIRKED verb- To avoid, especially a duty, responsibility, etc.; to stay away from.
- To evade an obligation; to avoid the performance of duty, as by running away.
- To procure by petty fraud and trickery; to obtain by mean solicitation.