politician

The word “politician” means a person who holds or seeks elected or appointed government office. In plain terms, someone who works in government, or, informally, someone who plays social/office politics skillfully.

“Politician” is pronounced pol-ih-TIHSH-uhn (/ˌpɑ.ləˈtɪʃ.ən/ in IPA).

Here is “politician” used in a sentence: “The politician promised to lower taxes if elected.”

Words with a similar meaning to “politician” include politico.

“Politician” is a noun.

“Politician” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Politician” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person who holds or seeks elected or appointed government office.

Both hold or seek public office, but 'politician' is a neutral or sometimes negative term for anyone active in political life. 'Statesman' is a respectful term for an experienced, principled leader admired for wisdom and for putting the public good first.

A politician holds or seeks elected or appointed government office, usually within their own country's politics. A diplomat represents that country's interests abroad and manages relations with other nations, often as an appointed rather than elected official.

Beyond its literal meaning, 'politician' can describe someone skilled or overly focused on maneuvering for advantage within an organization. Used this way, it suggests self-interest and manipulation rather than genuine public service.

A politician holds or seeks government office and is often chosen by election. A policymaker is anyone who helps shape official policy, which can include unelected officials and advisers, so not every policymaker is a politician.