veteran
adjective
1. rendered competent through trial and experience
- veteran steadiness
- a veteran officer
Similar word(s): experienced, experient, seasoned
noun
1. a serviceman who has seen considerable active service
- the veterans laughed at the new recruits
Definition categories: person, man, serviceman
2. a person who has served in the armed forces
Similar word(s): vet
Definition categories: person, man, serviceman
3. an experienced person who has been through many battles; someone who has given long service