Target of 110-Across - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

This clue is a classic example of a cross-reference, a common feature in crossword puzzles, especially on Sundays. Its solution is entirely dependent on another answer in the grid. At first glance, it's a complete mystery, but once you solve the referenced clue, the answer often becomes delightfully obvious. This particular clue-and-answer pair taps into a universally recognized piece of animation history.

Clue Analysis

The clue is "Target of 110-Across". This tells us we need to find the answer to 110-Across and then think about what that person, place, or thing's 'target' is. Given that the answer to this clue is ROADRUNNER, we can reverse-engineer the identity of 110-Across. The most famous pursuer of the Road Runner is, of course, Wile E. Coyote. Therefore, 110-Across is almost certainly WILEECOYOTE.

Once we know that, the clue effectively reads: "Target of WILEECOYOTE". In the world of Looney Tunes, his one and only target is the speedy bird he can never catch.

Thinking Approaches

When faced with a cross-referenced clue like this, the strategy is straightforward:

1. Go to the Source: Immediately navigate to the referenced clue (110-Across in this case) and try to solve it first. Don't waste time guessing this clue in a vacuum.
2. Use Crossings: If 110-Across isn't immediately obvious, work on the clues that cross it. Getting a few letters of W-L-E-C-Y-T- can quickly trigger the solver's memory.
3. Make the Connection: Once you've filled in WILEECOYOTE, your mind should instantly leap to his long-suffering nemesis. The association is one of the most famous in cartoon history.
4. Confirm and Fill: Write in the answer for this clue and verify that its letters work with the corresponding crossing entries. This is the final check to ensure your logic is sound.

Background Context

The clue refers to the iconic duo from the Warner Bros. Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series of cartoons. The Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner shorts follow a simple, repeating formula: the perpetually hungry Wile E. Coyote devises elaborate and absurd schemes to catch the fleet-footed Road Runner.

These plans almost always involve faulty contraptions from the fictional Acme Corporation, and they invariably backfire, leading to the coyote's comical injury. The Road Runner, meanwhile, zips along the desert highways, letting out its signature "Meep, meep!" sound, always one step ahead.

Conclusion

This clue is a perfect example of how cross-references can create a fun 'aha!' moment for the solver. It requires a two-step process but rewards the effort with a nostalgic trip back to classic Saturday morning cartoons. While initially unapproachable, it becomes a simple, direct clue once its partner is revealed, making it a satisfying entry to fill in.

Hints

1. Hint 1: The answer is a famous cartoon character known for its incredible speed.
2. Hint 2: This character is constantly pursued by another character, often with elaborate but ultimately failing contraptions.
3. Hint 3: The pursuer in this classic cartoon duo is often supplied by the Acme Corporation.
4. Hint 4: This bird's signature sound is 'Meep, meep!'

The answer is ROADRUNNER.