Crossword Genius

That woman changed, removing top in a safe place (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sheltered

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

'in a safe place' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'that woman changed removing top' is the wordplay.
'that woman' becomes 'she' (she refers to a woman).
'changed' becomes 'altered' ('alter' can be a synonym of 'change').
'removing top' means to remove the first letter (I've seen 'removes top' mean this).
'altered' with its first letter taken away is 'ltered'.
'she'+'ltered'='SHELTERED'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sheltered that I've seen before include "Protected, as housing" , "Covered" , "in such accommodation?" , "Safely tucked away" , "Protected from danger or bad weather" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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.