influential

1 of 2

adjective

in·​flu·​en·​tial ˌin-(ˌ)flü-ˈen(t)-shəl How to pronounce influential (audio)
: 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
Still, Madrid’s governance model is integral to the club’s self-image, although few doubt that Perez has been the most influential in setting policy during his two spells as president (2000-2006 and since 2009). Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025 Through their performances, the 10 remaining couples will pay tribute to influential people in their lives. Brianne Tracy, PEOPLE, 15 Oct. 2025
Noun
On the right, Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist influential in MAGA circles, captured the mood from the base. Jesus Mesa, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025 But that’s not the only fix Richard Reeves suggests in his influential Of Boys and Men. Joan C. Williams june 13, Literary Hub, 13 June 2025 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 20 Oct. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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