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 actions

2.

a) the power of persons or things to affect others, seen only in its effects

b) the action or effect of such power

3. 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 influence

5. Elec. the effect of an external field

vt.

influenced, influencing

to exert or have influence on; have an effect on the nature, behavior, development, action, or thought of

SYN.- 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 ]