Definitions

elder statesman

NOUN

influential person

Synonyms

WEAK

elder important person mentor national leader starets wise old man

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Letterman is enjoying his elder statesman status with an interview show on Netflix, “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction,” that he makes on his own schedule.

From Salon • May 21, 2026

He stayed on as Clinton's chief adviser after he left office in 2000 and helped him transition from president into a jet-setting elder statesman.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

Kershaw, 14 years Misiorowski’s senior, laughed when asked what it’s like to be the elder statesman in such high-profile matchups now.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 7, 2025

Mr Morrison described Mr Adams as "an elder statesman".

From BBC • May 9, 2025

I saw my role as am elder statesman who might help them move on to the more inclusive ideas of the Congress Movement.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela