Dictionary entry

Veteran

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Vet″er‐an (vĕt″ẽr‐an), a. [L. veteranus, from vetus, veteris, old; akin to Gr. ἔτοσ year, Skr. vatsara. See Wether.] Long exercised in anything, especially in military life and the duties of a soldier; long practiced or experienced; as, a veteran officer or soldier; veteran skill.

The insinuating eloquence and delicate flattery of veteran diplomatists and courtiers. Macaulay.