influence

influence

noun

Definition of INFLUENCE

1

the power to direct the thinking or behavior of others usually indirectly <a mayor who doesn't hesitate to use her influence to get business leaders behind civic improvements>

Synonyms authority, clout, credit, heft, in, juice [slang], leverage, pull, sway, weight

Related Words counterinfluence; command, dominance, dominion, mastery, predominance, reign, scepter, sovereignty (also sovranty), supremacy; consequence, eminence, importance, moment; impact, impress, impression, imprint, mark

Near Antonyms helplessness, impotence, impotency, powerlessness, weakness

2

the power to bring about a result on another <the basic premise of astrology is that the position of the stars has an influence on human affairs>

Synonyms impact, influence, mark, repercussion, sway

Related Words authority, clout, prestige, pull, weight; command, domination, dominion, mastery; consequence, importance, significance; sovereignty (also sovranty), supremacy

Near Antonyms helplessness, impotence, impotency, powerlessness, weakness