The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word EXPLICIT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
E
X
P
L
I
C
I
T
More clues leading to the result EXPLICIT
- East Windows — since replaced — permitted, revealing everything
- Hard-core unit sent into company cutting leave
- Clear European vote in line with law, under pressure
- Once pictures start to get legal, leaving little to the imagination
- Out of power, allowed to be smutty?
- In departure, line in film unambiguous
- Outspoken priest allowed to stand by beheaded king
- Graphically detailed clip playing during departure
- Photo catching Libyan leader in death leaves nothing to the imagination
- One in company leaving Claims Direct
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "smutty" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case smutty = explicit.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 EXPLICIT mean?
EXPLICIT adjective- Very specific, clear, or detailed.
- Containing material (e.g. language or film footage) that might be deemed offensive or graphic.