The term 'SCRATCHES (OUT)' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: EKES (4 letters), LOSER (5 letters), and RASES (5 letters). Ekes is a verb meaning to make a living by doing odd jobs or by scrimping and saving. LOSER is a noun meaning someone who has been defeated or who has failed to win. Rases is a verb meaning to erase or to rub out. All three words are related to the idea of scratching something out, which is the definition of the term 'SCRATCHES (OUT)'.