Serene local man embraced (4)
![Ross](/clue/static/ross-mug.min.png)
I believe the answer is:
calm
'serene' is the definition.
('calm' can be a synonym of 'serene')
'local man embraced' is the wordplay.
'embraced' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'CALM' can be found hidden inside 'local man'.
(Other definitions for calm that I've seen before include "Cool, not excited" , "Self-possessed" , "Peace, tranquillity" , "stained-glass window maker could need this" , "Unruffled, not excited" .)