What is the opposite of "novice"?

The term "novice" refers to someone who is new or inexperienced in a particular field or activity. Therefore, its opposite would be someone who has a high level of skill or extensive experience in that field. "Expert" aptly describes this level of proficiency, as it indicates a deep understanding and mastery of the subject matter. Unlike terms such as "amateur," "intermediate," and "beginner," which still signify varying degrees of lack of experience or expertise, "expert" represents the pinnacle of knowledge and accomplishment, making it the correct antonym for "novice."