In the context of "Go down in flames," the word "tank" likely refers to the meaning of failure or be unsuccessful. "Going down in flames" typically implies a significant loss, failure, or defeat in a dramatic or catastrophic way. So, in this context, "tank" means to fail completely or suffer a dramatic defeat.
Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Deliberately try to fail, informally. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.