The term 'OUT SCRATCH' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: EKE (3 letters), FLAW (4 letters), and MAR (3 letters). EKE is a verb meaning to manage with difficulty or to make do with little. FLAW is a noun meaning an imperfection or defect. MAR is a verb meaning to damage or spoil the appearance of something. Together, these three words form the phrase 'out scratch, ' which means to make do with what one has, even if it is not perfect.