The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word LAZED
L
A
Z
E
D
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "took it easy" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case took it easy = lazed.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 LAZED mean?
LAZED verb- To be lazy, waste time.
- To pass time relaxing; to relax, lounge.