What does the cryptic crossword clue "Tone down the vocal support, being despondent (9)" mean?

The definition is "despondent". The wordplay uses a deletion. CHEER (synonym="CHEER") + LESS (synonym="LESS") = CHEERLESS; definition: "despondent" The answer is CHEERLESS.

Tone down the vocal support, being despondent (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29006 | 30 Across | 2023-03-01 flower

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