- influence
- influence [in′flo͞o əns, in flo͞o′əns]n.[OFr < ML influentia, a flowing in < L influens, prp. of influere, to flow in < -in, in + fluere, to flow: see FLUCTUATE]1. Astrol. the flowing of an ethereal fluid or power from the stars, thought to affect people's character and actions2.a) the power of persons or things to affect others, seen only in its effectsb) the action or effect of such power3. the ability of a person or group to produce effects indirectly by means of power based on wealth, high position, etc.4. a person or thing that has influence5. Elec. the effect of an external fieldvt.influenced, influencingto exert or have influence on; have an effect on the nature, behavior, development, action, or thought ofSYN.- AFFECT, INFLUENCE implies the power of persons or things (whether or not exerted consciously or overtly) to affect others [he owed his position to influence]; AUTHORITY implies the power to command acceptance, belief, obedience, etc., based on strength of character, expertness of knowledge, etc. [a statement made on good authority]; PRESTIGE implies the power to command esteem or admiration, based on brilliance of achievement or outstanding superiority; WEIGHT implies influence that is more or less preponderant in its effect [he threw his weight to the opposition ]
English World dictionary. V. Neufeldt. 2014.