Statesman \States"man\, n.; pl. Statesmen.

1. A man versed in public affairs and in the principles and art of government; especially, one eminent for political abilities.

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. --More.

2. One occupied with the affairs of government, and influental in shaping its policy.

3. A small landholder. [Prov. Eng.]

--Halliwell.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)