Meaning & Definition of word "Influence"

Influence

/ˈɪnfluəns/

noun:

1. The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.
- Example: Her influence on the committee was significant in shaping the new policy.
2. A person or thing that affects someone or something in an important way.
- Example: He was a strong influence in her decision to pursue a career in medicine.
3. The power to change or affect someone or something.
- Example: Economic factors can have a considerable influence on the housing market.

verb:

1. To have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.
- Example: Parents influence their children's values and beliefs.
2. To change or affect someone or something deliberately.
- Example: The documentary aims to influence public opinion about climate change.
3. To sway or have an impact on someone’s decisions or actions.
- Example: Her speech influenced many voters to support her campaign.

Etymology

Derived from Latin 'influere', meaning 'to flow into'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

under the influence:

Impaired by alcohol or drugs.

influence peddling:

Using one's influence with the government or other official agencies to promote a private interest.

be a bad influence:

To have a negative impact on someone's behavior.

Related Words

influential:

Having great influence on someone or something.

influencer:

A person who has the power to affect the purchasing decisions of others because of their authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with their audience.

Slang Meanings of influence

Meaning: To have sway over someone.

Example Sentence: She's got a lot of pull with the higher-ups.

Meaning: To work behind the scenes to affect an outcome.

Example Sentence: He's been working the system to get what he wants.