What does the cryptic crossword clue "Calm partner holding ace (5)" mean?

The definition is "Calm". The wordplay uses charade, container. ALLY (synonym of "partner") + A (synonym of "ace") [container: "holding"]; definition: "Calm" The answer is ALLAY.

Calm partner holding ace (5)

Times Cryptic #28647 | 22 Down | 2023-07-05 flower

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