plural influences
Definition of influence
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: the power or capacity of causing an effect in indirect or intangible ways : sway
2a
: 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 gain
3
: one that exerts influence
4
: an emanation of spiritual or moral force
5a
: 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 stars
under the influence
: affected by alcohol or drug intoxication
was arrested for driving under the influence
influence
verb
influenced; influencing
Definition of influence (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: to affect or alter by indirect or intangible means
She attempted to influence his decision. greatly influenced by my parents
2
: to have an effect on the condition or development of
Productivity was influenced by worker satisfaction.
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
The Exceptions Quiz III
-
- Which of these words does not mean "nonsense"?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Spell words. Make bears.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share influence
Time Traveler for influence
The first known use of influence was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century