Response to a series of complaints … that also jokingly applies to 17-, 27- and 47-Across - NYT The Crossword Clue

The clue "Trips around the track" refers to the repeated circuits or rounds made on a track, such as in racing or running. These are commonly called "LAPS." The plural matches the clue's phrasing, indicating multiple trips.

The answer is ICEE because it is a popular frozen, slushy drink that is extremely cold. Drinking an ICEE too quickly can cause "brain freeze," the painful sensation caused by the rapid cooling of the roof of your mouth. This makes it a fitting match for the clue.

The clue "Certain group of hip-hop performers" points to a collective group specializing in hip-hop dance, a key element of hip-hop culture. A "DANCE CREW" fits perfectly, as it refers to a group of performers who execute choreographed dance routines, often associated with hip-hop.

The answer "SIC" is used in writing to indicate that an error or unusual term in a quoted text belongs to the original source, not the writer. Since "[Not my mistake]" reflects this exact meaning, "SIC" is the correct solution.

The SPLEEN produces white blood cells (lymphocytes) as part of the immune system. Shaped like a coffee bean, it filters blood, removes damaged cells, and aids immunity. The clue’s description aligns both its function and distinct shape with the role of the spleen in the body.

The answer is HOSE because fire trucks are equipped with hoses to spray water or other fire-suppressing agents. The clue directly refers to this essential attachment that firefighters use to extinguish fires, making HOSE the clear and logical solution.

The answer is ADHD because Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition commonly managed with medications like Concerta, a stimulant prescribed to improve focus and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. The clue directly references a medical treatment linked specifically to this disorder.

The clue "Soul from Seoul" uses wordplay involving "Soul" sounding like "Seoul." Kia, a South Korean car manufacturer based in Seoul, produces vehicles like the Kia Soul. The play on words ties the car model "Soul" to its origin in Seoul, making "KIA" the answer.

The answer "EAR" fits because beagles are known for their distinctive floppy ears, which droop down on the sides of their heads. This physical trait is iconic and part of their breed’s appearance, making "EAR" a perfect match for the clue.

The solution is PRETEXT because a "pretext" is a false or misleading reason given to justify an action. It aligns directly with the clue, as it describes deceitfully using an excuse or fabricated justification to achieve a hidden motive. This definition makes it a precise match for the clue.

The phrase "On the honor system" refers to a system where trust and honesty are relied upon, without enforcement or verification. The blank in "On the ___ system" is filled with HONOR, fitting the expression commonly used to describe such situations.

The clue "Natural paradises" refers to idyllic, perfect places often described as "gardens" or utopias in literature or tradition. EDENS aligns with this as it references the biblical Garden of Eden, a symbol of an untouched, ideal paradise.

The phrase "___ not worthy!" comes from the movie Wayne's World, where the characters famously say, “We’re not worthy!” when expressing exaggerated humility or admiration. The contraction "We’re" expands to "We are," and its past tense form is "WERE," making it the solution.

The clue "Not take 'no' for an answer" describes someone who firmly persists despite rejection or refusal. To "INSIST" means to demand firmly or persistently, effectively not accepting a "no" as a response, which directly aligns with the phrasing of the clue.

The answer is PACO because Paco Rabanne was a renowned Spanish fashion designer known for his iconic and futuristic designs, as well as his perfume line. The clue directly references his last name, Rabanne, identifying him as "Paco."

The answer "AKA" stands for "also known as," a phrase commonly used to introduce an alias or alternative name for someone. The clue "Letters before an alias" directly hints at this abbreviation, as it precedes aliases or pseudonyms in written and spoken contexts.

REMITS is the solution because "remit" means to send money as a payment or transfer. The clue refers to the act of transferring funds, aligning with the financial definition of "remit." It directly ties to transferring money or funds between parties.

The answer "ABET" means to assist or encourage someone in committing a crime or wrongdoing. It directly fits the clue "Help in crime," as to abet is to provide aid or support in unlawful activities, aligning with the clue's straightforward phrasing.

The clue uses a playful double meaning. A "site" for "saved cookies" could refer to a physical location. In this case, it humorously points to a jar, commonly used to store cookies at home, aligning with the pun in the clue.

The clue "Honda or Hyundai" refers to types of vehicles, specifically automobiles. "AUTO" is a common shorthand for automobile, perfectly fitting the clue as both Honda and Hyundai are well-known car manufacturers. The straightforward nature of the clue leads directly to this logical answer.

The answer is THREAD because, on social media platforms, a "thread" is a sequence of connected posts, often starting with an original message followed by related replies or updates. It represents a series of messages logically linked together, fitting the clue perfectly.

The clue "Wished (for)" directly aligns with the meaning of "HOPED," as both imply a desire or longing for something to happen. "HOPED" is synonymous with "wished" in the context of expressing yearning or expectation for a particular outcome.

MAIN MENUS is the solution because it refers to the primary navigational tools on a website, typically found at the top or side of the page, providing access to key sections or features. They serve as "aids" by organizing content and guiding users through the website efficiently.

The clue "Not working" means inactive or not in use. The word "IDLE" fits perfectly as it describes a state of inactivity or doing nothing, which aligns with "not working." It’s a straightforward synonym match, making IDLE the apt answer.

The clue "Up to the task" refers to being capable or competent enough to complete something. The word "ABLE" directly means having the ability or capacity to do something, making it the perfect fit for this straightforward clue.

The solution "SLIDER" refers to a small, bite-sized burger often served as an appetizer or snack. The clue "Petite burger" plays on the idea of its small size ("petite"), which directly describes a slider.

The clue "Rowing implement" refers to a tool used for rowing a boat. An "OAR" is a long pole with a flat blade at one end, specifically designed for this purpose, making it the correct answer. It directly matches the clue's description.

The word "eschews" means deliberately avoiding or abstaining from something, which fits closely with the definition of "forgoes" — to give up or refrain from. Both convey a sense of intentional avoidance, making ESCHEWS a precise and apt answer for the clue.

The answer "ANA" refers to Ana de Armas, a well-known Cuban-Spanish actress. She has gained international recognition for roles in films like Knives Out, Blade Runner 2049, and No Time to Die. The clue directly asks for her first name, making "ANA" the correct and straightforward solution.

AHAB is the captain in Herman Melville's novel Moby-Dick. He obsessively hunts the white whale, Moby Dick, across the seas, symbolizing his relentless pursuit of vengeance and obsession. The phrase "White whale chaser of literature" directly refers to his role in this classic work of American literature.

The clue "Companion that might fall asleep on your keyboard?" uses wordplay with "companion" hinting at a pet, and the imagery of an animal lounging on a keyboard is characteristic of a cat. Thus, the answer "PETCAT" fits perfectly as a playful, accurate solution.

The phrase "run off to get hitched" directly describes the act of eloping—secretly running away to marry without parental consent or formal arrangements. "Run off" conveys leaving suddenly, while "get hitched" is a casual term for marriage. Together, they perfectly define ELOPE.

The clue "Heavy books" has a double meaning. "TOMES" refers to large, weighty books, both physically and in terms of substance or content. The wordplay lies in "heavy" implying both physical heft and seriousness, making TOMES the perfect fit.

The "A" in "P.T.A." stands for "Association," which is a part of the Parent-Teacher Association. The clue specifies "Abbr.," indicating the answer is a shortened form. "ASSN" is the standard abbreviation for "Association," making it the correct answer.

The clue "Taverna wrap" refers to Greek cuisine, as "taverna" is a Greek restaurant. A GYRO is a popular Greek wrap, typically made with meat, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in pita bread. Hence, GYRO fits perfectly as the answer.

ASMR stands for "Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response," a calming, tingly sensation often triggered by specific sounds or visuals, like whispers or gentle tapping. The clue specifies "in brief," hinting at an acronym, and the described "soft, warm, tingly feeling" perfectly matches the soothing experience of ASMR.

OKRA is a traditional ingredient in gumbo, especially in Creole and Cajun cuisines. This vegetable thickens the dish due to its mucilaginous texture when cooked and is a staple in Southern cooking. The clue directly points to a key component of gumbo, making OKRA the correct answer.

The clue "Russian refusal" directly points to a word for "no" in Russian. In Russian, "nyet" (нет) means "no," making it a clear and accurate answer. The mention of "Russian" signals the foreign language connection, ensuring the answer corresponds to a Russian term.

The clue "Green-lights" means to give approval or permission for something to proceed. The answer "OKS" works because it’s a verb form of "OK," which is commonly used to signify approval or acceptance, effectively “green-lighting” something. It aligns perfectly with the clue’s intent.

The answer "DAP" refers to a friendly gesture similar to a high-five. It commonly involves a fist bump or an intricate handshake often used to greet or celebrate. It's an alternative way to express camaraderie, making it a fitting solution for "High-five alternative."

The clue "Entirety" refers to the whole of something, leaving nothing out. The word "ALL" fits as it means the complete amount or total, which aligns perfectly with the definition of "Entirety." It's concise and directly synonymous with the clue.