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.