statesman

noun

states·​man ˈstāts-mən How to pronounce statesman (audio)
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
statesmanlike adjective
statesmanly adjective
statesmanship noun

Examples of statesman in a Sentence

He was a soldier and statesman.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Named after John Edwards, Kentucky’s second-ever U.S. Senator and a resident of Bourbon County, this exclusive release continues the brand’s legacy of honoring distinguished statesmen while delivering an exceptional bourbon experience. Gege Reed, The Courier-Journal, 2 July 2025 Visitors also saw her figurative works on the themes of freedom and democracy, made in collaboration with the former South African statesman and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela. Percy Zvomuya, Artforum, 1 June 2025 Prevost served as a missionary in Peru for the early part of his career, before moving on to leadership positions in the Vatican, a range of experiences that solidify his credentials as a teacher, statesman, and governor. Aryn Baker, Time, 6 May 2025 The tomb also featured a small courtyard that led to an entrance, as well as a square hall ending in a compartment for the statesman’s remains. Toria Sheffield, People.com, 1 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for statesman

Word History

First Known Use

1592, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of statesman was in 1592

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Cite this Entry

“Statesman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/statesman. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

statesman

noun
states·​man ˈstāt-smən How to pronounce statesman (audio)
: a person engaged in fixing the policies and conducting the affairs of a government
especially : one having unusual wisdom and skill in such matters
statesmanlike adjective
statesmanly adjective
statesmanship noun

More from Merriam-Webster on statesman

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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