English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

statesman

STAYTS-muhn

Statesman (noun) means a respected, experienced political leader, especially one known for wisdom and integrity rather than mere ambition. Example: “He was remembered as a great statesman who worked for peace between nations.”

noun
1
A respected, experienced political leader, especially one known for wisdom and integrity rather than mere ambition.
"He was remembered as a great statesman who worked for peace between nations."

How to Use Statesman

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA political leader admired for skill, wisdom, and public service, not just for holding office.

Common mistake

A statesman implies respect and integrity — a mere "politician" doesn't necessarily carry the same praise.

Common pairings
elder statesman a true statesman

Word Forms

statesmen plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “statesman” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

He was remembered as a great _____ who worked for peace between nations.

Etymology

Formed from state, a connecting -s-, and man, modeled on the French phrase homme d'État.

Origin: French

wealsman

Rhymes for statesman

See all rhymes for statesman →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “statesman” mean?

The word “statesman” means a respected, experienced political leader, especially one known for wisdom and integrity rather than mere ambition. In plain terms, a political leader admired for skill, wisdom, and public service, not just for holding office.

How do you pronounce “statesman”?

“Statesman” is pronounced STAYTS-muhn (/ˈsteɪtsmən/ in IPA).

How do you use “statesman” in a sentence?

Here is “statesman” used in a sentence: “He was remembered as a great statesman who worked for peace between nations.”

What is another word for “statesman”?

Words with a similar meaning to “statesman” include wealsman.

What part of speech is “statesman”?

“Statesman” is a noun.

Where does the word “statesman” come from?

The word “statesman” comes from French. Formed from state, a connecting -s-, and man, modeled on the French phrase homme d'État.

Is “statesman” a common word?

“Statesman” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial