statesman

noun

states·man | \ ˈstāts-mən

Definition of statesman

1 : one versed in the principles or art of government especially : one actively engaged in conducting the business of a government or in shaping its policies

2 : a wise, skillful, and respected political leader

Other Words from statesman Example Sentences Learn More about statesman

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Other Words from statesman

statesmanlike \ ˈstāts-mən-ˌlīk

\ adjective

statesmanly \ ˈstāts-mən-lē

\ adjective

statesmanship \ ˈstāts-mən-ˌship

\ noun

Examples of statesman in a Sentence

He was a soldier and statesman.

Recent Examples on the Web

Senior statesman Kim Yong Nam, the head of North Korea's parliament, set the relatively softer tone for the event with an opening speech that emphasized the economic goals of the regime, not its nuclear might. — Fox News, "The Latest: China's Xi congratulates N. Korea on anniversary," 9 Sep. 2018 The Library of Congress has digitized its collection of Franklin’s papers, including approximately 8,000 of his personal letters, scientific drawings, and documents from his career as a statesman and diplomat. — Bethany Ao, Philly.com, "More of Ben Franklin to love: 8,000 of his papers are now digitized online," 17 Apr. 2018 Since launching a diplomatic initiative at the start of the year, Kim has gone out of his way to present himself as an international statesman. — Kim Tong-hyung, Fox News, "A Kim Jong Un visit to Seoul? It would be surreal challenge," 20 Sep. 2018 For months and months the country’s dictator has been built up not only as a domestic superhero, but as an international statesman of genius. — The Economist, "In its trade war with America, China dials down the hype," 12 July 2018 The World Cup’s global reach has allowed Putin to be a statesman, hosting presidents and prime ministers and even attempting to find accord between Israel and Palestine. — Martin Rogers, USA TODAY, "Whatever happens, Vladimir Putin is winning the World Cup," 1 July 2018 Netanyahu has sought to campaign as the country’s most experienced statesman and security expert. — Isabel Debre, The Seattle Times, "Israel bombs targets in Gaza as rocket fire resumes," 27 Mar. 2019 Israel has long been fascinated with iconic warrior-statesmen like Rabin, Moshe Dayan and Ariel Sharon. — Aron Heller, The Seattle Times, "Israeli ex-army chief launches campaign to replace Netanyahu," 29 Jan. 2019 Elder feathered statesmen are constantly bickering. — Charlie Theel, Ars Technica, "Root is a terrific—and fully asymmetric—woodland wargame," 29 Sep. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'statesman.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.