influential

1 of 2

adjective

in·​flu·​en·​tial ˌin-(ˌ)flü-ˈen(t)-shəl How to pronounce influential (audio)
Synonyms of influentialnext
: exerting or possessing influence
influentially adverb

influential

2 of 2

noun

: one who has great influence

Examples of influential in a Sentence

Adjective His theories have become more influential in recent years. My parents have been the most influential people in my life.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Today marks the birth date of the influential free market economist, political philosopher and Nobel laureate. The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 8 May 2026 The center continued that Bugno had played an influential behind-the-scenes role in championing independent voices from regions historically marginalized within the global film industry, and notably the Arab World. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 7 May 2026
Noun
Was working with Jack White influential to how Spaceflight developed? Absolutely. Selena Fragassi, SPIN, 22 Apr. 2026 In 1938 the area was once again declared a Game Reserve, with British conservationist Norman Carr influential in its establishment. Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 22 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for influential

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1570, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of influential was in 1570

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Influential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/influential. Accessed 14 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

influential

adjective
in·​flu·​en·​tial
ˌin-(ˌ)flü-ˈen-chəl
: having influence
influentially
-ˈench-(ə-)lē
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on influential

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster