Cryptic crossword clue
Rugged Derek called back

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word GNARLED

I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
G
N
A
R
L
E
D

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Rugged" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case rugged = gnarled.
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 GNARLED mean?

GNARLED verb
  1. To knot or twist something.
GNARLED verb
  1. To snarl or growl; to gnar.
GNARLED adjective
  1. Knotty and misshapen.
  2. Made rough by age or hard work.
GNARLED verb
  1. To knot or twist something.
GNARLED verb
  1. To snarl or growl; to gnar.

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