Absolutely serious eastern winds (7)

I believe the answer is:

earnest

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'absolutely serious' is the definition.
'earnest' can be an answer for 'serious' (similar in meaning). I am unsure of the 'absolutely' bit.

'eastern winds' is the wordplay.
'winds' indicates anagramming the letters (the letters wind around).
'eastern' with letters rearranged gives 'EARNEST'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for earnest that I've seen before include "Serious - advance" , "Eastern (anag.)" , "Grave" , "Impassioned" , "Sincere; determined" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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