states·man
ˈstāts-mən
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
1
: the art or practice of conducting governmental affairs : political leadership
those who are fit for the highest duties of statesmanship such as the final choice of means and ends—G. H. Sabine
stupid, stubborn statesmanship, without vision or imagination—C. G. Bowers
2
: leadership characterized by wisdom, breadth of vision, or regard for the general welfare rather than partisan interest
transforms opportunism into idealism, or politics into statesmanship—R. B. Perry
forgot statesmanship and embraced politics—New York Herald Tribune Book Review
a task demanding a high level of educational statesmanship—J. D. Russell & C. H. Judd
industrial statesmanship
labor statesmanship
Cite this Entry
“Statesman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/statesman. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.
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