warhorse

or war-horse, war horse

[ wawr-hawrs ]

noun

1. a horse used in war; charger.
2. Informal. a veteran, as a soldier or politician, of many struggles and conflicts.
3. a musical composition, play, etc., that has been seen, heard, or performed excessively.

warhorse

/ ˈwɔːˌhɔːs /

noun

1. a horse used in battle
2. informal.
   a veteran soldier, politician, or elderly person, esp one who is aggressive

Word History and Origins

Origin of warhorse¹

First recorded in 1645–55; war ¹ + horse

Example Sentences

You must know that his sword was as wide as the oars of a boat and could cut down a galloping warhorse.

From Literature

The old Tory warhorse and the young Labour MP bonded over discussions on Christian theology.

From BBC

Gould became the chief herald of the new era of digital recording, and of the power it gave artists — and audiences — to reconfigure even the most familiar classical warhorses to their individual tastes.

From Los Angeles Times

But what of the old warhorse, the TV movie?

From Los Angeles Times

They were warhorses like Alsvindr, bedecked in plating and royal standards.

From Literature

Related Words

• old-timer