elder statesman

American  

noun

1. an influential citizen, often a retired high official, whose advice is sought by government leaders.

2. any influential member of a company, group, etc., whose advice is respected.

3. Japanese History. any of the political leaders who retired from official office but continued to exert a strong influence in the government and who controlled the emperor's privy council, especially in the period 1898–1914.

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elder statesman British  

noun

1. an old, experienced, and eminent person, esp a politician, whose advice is often sought

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Etymology

Origin of elder statesman

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

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

"Craig was my mentor, wise counsel, passionate advisor, and great friend. He was the distinguished elder statesman with a reservoir of Olympic knowledge and experience which he shared willingly and to great effect," Coe added.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

By the end of his run there, Kupp was a seasoned elder statesman, still contributing but also helping younger players fine-tune their game.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 13, 2025

Sir John Major is now the elder statesman among them.

From BBC • Nov. 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