A "Former Secretary of State" refers to an individual who has previously held the position of Secretary of State in the United States government. This role is primarily responsible for foreign affairs and represents the U.S. in international matters. The Secretary of State is a key member of the President's Cabinet and plays a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy. Once a person leaves this position, they are referred to as a former Secretary of State. Notable examples include Hillary Clinton and Condoleezza Rice, who both served under different administrations. Their experiences often lead to continued influence in political and diplomatic discussions.