statesman

[ steyts-muhn ]

noun

, plural states·men.

1. a person who is experienced in the art of government or versed in the administration of government affairs.
2. a person who exhibits great wisdom and ability in directing the affairs of a government or in dealing with important public issues.

statesman

/ ˈsteɪtsmən /

noun

1. a political leader whose wisdom, integrity, etc, win great respect
2. a person active and influential in the formulation of high government policy, such as a cabinet member
3. a politician

Gender Note

See -man.

Derived Forms

• ˈstatesman-ˌlike, adjective
• ˈstatesˌwoman, noun:feminine
• ˈstatesmanship, noun

Other Words From

• statesman·like statesman·ly adjective
• super·statesman noun plural superstatesmen
• un·statesman·like adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of statesman¹

First recorded in 1585–95; state + 's ¹ + -man, modeled on steersman; compare the phrase ship of state

Synonym Study

See politician.

Example Sentences

So he brought artists, executives and elder black American statesmen together for a secret summit in 1995, hoping it would be a turning point.

From BBC

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

Related Words

• lawmaker
• legislator
• politician