retread
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
A person who re-entered military service in World War II after serving in World War I.
Register: slang
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
In Our War the Retreads usually slinked in over-aged, over-weight and overcautious in the face of a new generation.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “retread” mean?
A person who re-entered military service in World War II after serving in World War I.
Is “retread” formal or informal?
retread is generally slang.