The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word MODERATED
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "became less violent" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case became less violent = moderated.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
Crossword Answer definitions
MODERATED verb- To reduce the excessiveness of (something)
- To become less excessive
- To preside over (something) as a moderator
- To act as a moderator; to assist in bringing to compromise