The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word UNDEAD
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
U
N
D
E
A
D
More clues leading to the result UNDEAD
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "like zombie" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case like zombie = undead.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does UNDEAD mean?
UNDEAD noun- (horror fiction) A creature that is undead; that is, dead but still animate.
- (horror fiction) Those creatures which are undead; that is, dead yet still animate.
- Pertaining to a corpse, though having qualities of life.
- (horror fiction) Being animate, though non-living.