Crossword Genius

Robinson Crusoe was once this unsuccessful (6-2)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

washed-up

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'unsuccessful' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for washed-up that I've seen before include "as restaurant's dishes should be?" , "Done for" , "Successful no longer" , "Finished" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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