Veteran

veteran

noun veh-teh-RAHN Rare

Origin: from Latin veteranus

Also means

experienced soldier or long-serving expert

Usage Note

Veteran refers to a person with long experience, especially a former soldier. Germany long avoided the term officially for Bundeswehr personnel; a national Veteranentag (Veterans' Day) was first held in 2025, signalling a cultural shift.

Examples

"Der Veteran trug auf der Gedenkfeier seine Auszeichnungen."

Natural Translation

The veteran wore his decorations at the memorial ceremony.

Literal Translation

The veteran carried on the memorial-celebration his decorations.

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