veteran

[vet-er-uhn, ve-truhn] / ˈvɛt ər ən, ˈvɛ trən /

ADJECTIVE

experienced, seasoned

Synonyms

STRONGEST

old-time skilled trained

STRONG

adept expert old pro steady versed vet wise

WEAK

battle-scarred been around disciplined exercised from way back hardened inured knows one's stuff long-serving long-time not born yesterday of the old school practical practiced proficient sophisticated up to speed weathered wise to ways worldly

Antonyms

STRONG

unskilled

WEAK

amateur green inexperienced

NOUN

person with much experience; particularly in war

Synonyms

STRONGEST

expert pro vet

STRONG

GI old-timer sourdough trouper war-horse

WEAK

old guard old hand old pro old salt old soldier shellback

Antonyms

WEAK

rookie

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Seriously?” said Judge Wright, a nearly 20-year veteran of the court appointed by President George W. Bush.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

A veteran homicide detective named Jim Ford tried to retrace Cynthia’s last steps.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

The home in question has been at the center of a number of controversies—and was the source of a legal battle between Perry, 40, and the home’s former owner, veteran Carl Westcott.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

The veteran manager has won 13 of his 17 league matches across both spells, losing just two.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

His grandfather was a Vietnam War veteran, a U.S.

From "In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse" by Joseph Marshall III

veteran

Example Sentences

Related Words