also war-horse, 1650s, "powerful horse ridden into war," from war (n.) + horse (n.). Figurative sense of "seasoned veteran" of anything is attested from 1837. In reference to women [..]

(n) a work of art (composition or drama) that is part of the standard repertory but has become hackneyed from much repetition(n) an experienced person who has been through many battles; someone who ha [..]