elder statesman

noun

1. an influential citizen, often a retired high official, whose advice is sought by government leaders.
2. any influential member of a company, group, etc., whose advice is respected.
3. Japanese History. any of the political leaders who retired from official office but continued to exert a strong influence in the government and who controlled the emperor's privy council, especially in the period 1898–1914.

elder statesman

noun

1. an old, experienced, and eminent person, esp a politician, whose advice is often sought

Word History and Origins

Origin of elder statesman¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

And rap stars reciprocated his affection, looking on Jones as an inspirational elder statesman of black American music.

From BBC

Youth, fearlessness and raw determination prevailed as Dubois destroyed the elder statesman, Anthony Joshua, in five rounds with 96,000 fans bearing witness to the passing of a torch.

From BBC

Mack, the elder statesman entering his 11th season, shows no signs of slowing after finishing fourth in the NFL with 17 sacks last season.

From Los Angeles Times

The fading energy of elder statesmen has become something of a hot topic this year, but “Murders” continues to argue for a productive long life.

From Los Angeles Times

That left Clinton as the Democrat’s elder statesman.

From Los Angeles Times