Veteran /(vĕt"ẽr*an)/

Vet·er·an

Veteran

a.
  1. 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.

Veteran

n.
  1. One who has been long exercised in any service or art, particularly in war; one who has had much experience, or has grown old or decrepit in service.
    Ensigns that pierced the foe's remotest lines, The hardy veteran with tears resigns.