Crossword Genius

Stagger back, giving lecherous look (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

leer

'lecherous look' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'stagger back' is the wordplay.
'stagger' becomes 'reel' ('reel' can be a synonym of 'stagger').
'back' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'reel' reversed gives 'LEER'.

'giving' is the link.

(Other definitions for leer that I've seen before include "Ogle, smirk" , "Stare suggestively" , "Look lasciviously at" , "Give sly look" , "Lecherous look" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.