1. An elderly statesman whose advice is sought by government leaders
   "The elder statesman's experience proved invaluable during the crisis"
    
2. A man whose advice is highly respected
   "As an elder statesman in the industry, his opinion carried significant weight"

Derived forms: elder statesmen

Type of: adult male, bozo [N. Amer, informal], cat [N. Amer, informal], chappie [Brit, informal], geezer [Brit, informal], guy [informal], hombre [N. Amer, informal], important person, influential person, man, national leader, personage, sod [informal], statesperson

Encyclopedia: Elder statesman