Toast, in the context of the clue "A goner," is a slang term that means someone or something is in a hopeless or dire situation, typically suggesting that they are doomed or destined to fail. It can also refer to being in a problematic or dangerous circumstance with little chance of a positive outcome.
Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Something to butter up. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.