n. (Zool.) One of the Aptera. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. [ L. veteranus, from vetus, veteris, old; akin to Gr. 'e`tos 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

The insinuating eloquence and delicate flattery of veteran diplomatists and courtiers. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

[ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ L. veteranus (sc. miles): cf. F. vétéran. ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

Ensigns that pierced the foe's remotest lines,
The hardy veteran with tears resigns. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ In the United States, during the civil war, soldiers who had served through one term of enlistment and had reenlisted were specifically designated veterans. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. To reenlist for service as a soldier. [ U. S. ] Gen. W. T. Sherman. [ 1913 Webster ]