from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Statesman \States"man\ (-man), n.; pl. {Statesmen} (-men).
1. A man versed in public affairs and in the principles and
art of government; especially, one eminent for political
abilities.
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The minds of some of our statesmen, like the pupil
of the human eye, contract themselves the more, the
stronger light there is shed upon them. --Moore.
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2. One occupied with the affairs of government, and
influential in shaping its policy.
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3. A small landholder. [Prov. Eng.] --Halliwell.
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