What does the cryptic crossword clue "Veteran fighter removing outer clothing (5)" mean?

The definition is "Veteran". The wordplay uses a deletion. OLDIE (deletion) + (deletion) = OLDIE; definition: "Veteran" The answer is OLDIE.

Veteran fighter removing outer clothing (5)

Times Cryptic #29227 | 23 Across | 2025-05-12 flower