walking wounded

noun

1. casualties, as of a military conflict, who are wounded but ambulatory.
2. Informal. persons who have been damaged or defeated psychologically or emotionally by their experiences in life.

Word History and Origins

Origin of walking wounded¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The central hall remained, and the Red Triangle was on it, marking it out as a centre for walking wounded.

From Project Gutenberg

I then made my way up to the dressing-station to see if the Medical Officer required our services for the walking wounded.

From Project Gutenberg

No “walking wounded” appeared to come to this particular dressing-station.

From Project Gutenberg

For instance, a British officer among the walking wounded never goes ahead of his men to have his wounds dressed.

From Project Gutenberg

In front of the archway and in the road stood two "padrés" directing the continuous flow of stretchers and walking wounded.

From Project Gutenberg