the word 'statesmanlike' is a modern english compound adjective formed by adding the suffix '-like' to the noun 'statesman'. the noun 'statesman' emerged in the 16th century, combining 'state', from the latin 'status' (meaning condition, position), and 'man', to denote a person skilled in the affairs of government. the suffix '-like', of germanic origin, is used to form adjectives indicating resemblance. therefore, the literal construction "having the form of a statesman" evolved to describe the abstract qualities of wisdom, diplomacy, and leadership expected from such a figure, shifting from a simple descriptor of resemblance to one of commendable character.

Structure: statesman + like statesman: from english 'statesman', itself from 'state' (a politically organized body of people) + 'man' (a person). functions as the base noun. like: from old english 'līc', meaning 'body, form; like, similar'. functions as a suffix meaning 'having the characteristics of; resembling'.