# veteran

/ˈvɛtɝən/ (US) · /vˈɛtəɹən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/veteran
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. former soldier

noun · CEFR B2

someone who was a member of the army, navy, or air force, especially during a war.

For teachers: a person who has served in the armed forces, particularly one who has seen combat or served during a period of conflict.

- The town held a parade to honour the veterans who fought in the war.
- The government announced a new initiative to provide mental health support and vocational training for veterans transitioning back to civilian life.

Usage: Often used with 'war' as in 'war veteran'.

### 2. experienced person

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

someone who has done a job or activity for a long time and knows it very well.

For teachers: an individual with long-standing experience and expertise in a specific field or activity.

- As a veteran of the tech industry, she knew exactly how to handle the crisis.
- The political veteran navigated the complex negotiations with a level of poise that only decades of experience could provide.

### 3. highly experienced

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

having a lot of experience in a particular area.

For teachers: possessing extensive experience or having served for a long period in a specific capacity.

- The team signed a veteran player to help lead the younger athletes.
- The veteran journalist refused to publish the story until she had verified the claims with three independent sources.

## Examples

- The old soldier is a veteran of the second world war.
- As a veteran of the publishing industry, she knew exactly which editors would be interested in the new manuscript.
- The political veteran navigated the complex negotiations with a level of calm that only comes from decades of experience in high-stakes diplomacy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.