a serviceman who has seen considerable active service; the veterans laughed at the new recruits

[ Syn: veteran soldier ]

a person who has served in the armed forces

[ Syn: vet , ex-serviceman ]

an experienced person who has been through many battles; someone who has given long service

[ Syn: old-timer , oldtimer , old hand , warhorse , old stager , stager ]

rendered competent through trial and experience; a seasoned traveler; veteran steadiness; a veteran officer

[ Syn: seasoned ]