The term 'LIKE LOSERS' can be summarized by two crossword solutions, 'BESTED' and 'BEATEN'. Both words mean to have been defeated or overcome in a competition or struggle. 'BESTED' is an archaic form of the verb 'to best', meaning to defeat someone or something. 'BEATEN' is the past participle of the verb 'to beat', meaning to hit or strike repeatedly. Both words imply that someone has been defeated in a contest or challenge.