- Main Entry:
- 1in·flu·ence
- Pronunciation:
-
\ˈin-ˌflü-ən(t)s, especially Southern in-ˈ\
- Function:
- noun
- Etymology:
- Middle English, from Old French, from Medieval Latin influentia, from Latin influent-, influens, present participle of influere to flow in, from in- + fluere to flow — more at fluid
- Date:
- 14th century
1 a: an ethereal fluid held to flow from the stars and to affect the actions of humans b: an emanation of occult power held to derive from stars2: an emanation of spiritual or moral force3 a: the act or power of producing an effect without apparent exertion of force or direct exercise of command b: corrupt interference with authority for personal gain4: the power or capacity of causing an effect in indirect or intangible ways : sway5: one that exerts influence
—
under the influence : affected by alcohol : drunk <was arrested for driving under the influence> synonyms influence,
authority,
prestige,
weight,
credit mean power exerted over the minds or behavior of others.
influence may apply to a force exercised and received consciously or unconsciously
<used her influence to get the bill passed>.
authority implies the power of winning devotion or allegiance or of compelling acceptance and belief
<his opinions lacked authority>.
prestige implies the ascendancy given by conspicuous excellence or reputation for superiority
<the prestige of the newspaper>.
weight implies measurable or decisive influence in determining acts or choices
<their wishes obviously carried much weight>.
credit suggests influence that arises from the confidence of others
<his credit with the press>.
