politician

Definition of politician

Etymology

From politic + -ian.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA: /ˈpɒl.ɪ.tɪʃ.ən/, SAMPA: "pQl.I.tIS.@n/
• Audio (US) ^[?]

Noun

politician (plural politicians)

1. One engaged in politics, especially an elected or appointed government official.
   
   Politicians should serve the country's interest.
   
   
2. Specifically, one who regards elected political office as a career.
   
   Unlike the other candidates, I'm not a politician.
   
   * 1996, Tom Clancy, Executive Orders[1], ISBN 0399142185, page 438:
   I never wanted to be one, and as far as I'm concerned, I'm not a politician now. Am I the best man for this job? Probably not. I am, however, the President of the United States, […]
   
   
3. A politically active or interested person.
   
   Only real politicians are interested in this issue.
   
   * 1863, "The Fountain Kloof", in The Sunday at Home[2], page 211:
   You used to be such a politician. Do you remember the debates we held in Fitzroy's rooms?
   
   
4. A sly or ingratiating person.
   
   There is a politician in every office.
   
   * 1969, David E. Sanford, My Village, My World[3], page 90:
   Mrs. Dimitriou blushed at the compliment. "Antonios, you are such a politician," her husband chuckled.