Mantra, it seemed, concealed some quirks (6)
I believe the answer is:
traits
'some quirks' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both human attributes as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?
'mantra it seemed concealed' is the wordplay.
'concealed' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'TRAITS' can be found hidden inside 'mantra it seemed'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for traits that I've seen before include "Characteristics of artist" , "Identifying features or qualities" , "Distinguishing features" , "Characteristics, distinguishing qualities" , "Artist (anag.)" .)