a woman who is experienced in the art of government
2.
a woman who exhibits great wisdom and ability in directing the affairs of a government
Word origin
[1600–10; states(man) + -woman]This word is first recorded in the period 1600–10. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: adaptation, operate, skid, syndicate, umbrella-woman is a combining form, used in the formation of compound words indicating a woman ofa certain type or with a certain job. Other words that use the affix -woman include: chairwoman, forewoman, spokeswoman
Examples of 'stateswoman' in a sentence
stateswoman
Last week the elder stateswoman finally came to the fore.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
It is hoped pop's elder stateswoman will attend.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
In her place is a formidable stateswoman.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Her fans say that she is becoming an outstanding stateswoman.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
In her place is a formidable stateswoman, a monarch with a cast iron will.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
The former punkish poet, now elder stateswoman, plays a one-off 'evening of words and music'.