This often protected quiet (4)

I believe the answer is:

soft

'quiet' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'this often protected' is the wordplay.
'protected' indicates a hidden word (hidden letters are protected).
'SOFT' can be found hidden inside 'this often'.

(Other definitions for soft that I've seen before include "Cushy, not tough" , "Malleable, light" , "Cushioned" , "(Of drink) not alcoholic" , "Easy to mould or cut" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.

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