The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word GRAVELLED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
G
R
A
V
E
L
L
E
D
More clues leading to the result GRAVELLED
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "with bits of rock on ground" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case with bits of rock on ground = gravelled.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 GRAVELLED mean?
GRAVELLED verb- To apply a layer of gravel to the surface of a road, etc.
- To puzzle or annoy
- To run (as a ship) upon the gravel or beach; to run aground; to cause to stick fast in gravel or sand.
- To check or stop; to embarrass; to perplex.
- To hurt or lame (a horse) by gravel lodged between the shoe and foot.
- Covered with gravel.
- Perplexed, puzzled, baffled; troubled, annoyed.