17 Down

NYT Daily • August 24, 2025

Mean

Answer:

INTEND

Hint:

Think of a word that means "plan to" or "have in mind."

Explanation:

The word "mean" here isn’t about being unkind—it’s a verb meaning "to signify or intend." The clue plays on the double meaning, where "mean" as in "plan to do something" directly points to "intend." Think of it like saying, "I didn’t mean to hurt you," where "mean" and "intend" are practically synonyms. The answer fits because it captures that sense of purpose or intention.

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