Definition

A person who has not served in the military or does not have experience in a particular field.

Example

As a nonveteran, she was eager to learn from those with more experience.

Conversation

I met a really interesting guy at the event last night.

Oh really? What did he do?

He's a nonveteran who’s really passionate about helping veterans.

That sounds great! It's nice to see people supporting those who served.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonveteran → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "veteran" (from Latin "veteranus", meaning old or experienced). The word "nonveteran" refers to someone who is not an experienced or old member of a group, particularly in a military context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'veteran' meaning 'experienced' — so a nonveteran is someone who is not experienced.

Visually Confused Words