Crossword Genius

First one subtracted from odd number — becoming this? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

even

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

'first one' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Maybe you can see an association between them that I don't see?

'subtracted from odd number becoming this?' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'number' could be 'v' (V is an example) and 'v' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'een' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for even that I've seen before include "happening to take time off?" , "Smooth, level" , "Level, par" , "Level, calm" , "Commensurate" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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