Crossword Genius

Calm and serene, instead changed key (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sedate

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'calm and serene' is the definition.
(I know that sedate is a more specific form of the attribute calm)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sedate that I've seen before include "Placid" , "Dignified and sombre" , "Calm and dignified in manner" , "Composed and staid" , "Staid and sober" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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.