Robust writer (5)

I believe the answer is:

hardy

I believe this clue is a double definition.

'robust' is the first definition.
(similar in meaning)

'writer' is the second definition.
(Thomas Hardy)

(Other definitions for hardy that I've seen before include "Author - robust" , "16 novelist" , "standing the test of time?" , "Writer" , "He wrote" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.

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