[in.flu.ence] n [ME, fr. MF, fr. ML influentia, fr. L influent-, influens, prp. of influere to flow in, fr. in- + fluere to flow--more at fluid] (14c) 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 stars
2: an emanation of spiritual or moral force 3 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 gain
4: the power or capacity of causing an effect in indirect or intangible ways: sway
5: one that exerts influence -- under the influence : affected by alcohol: drunk "was arrested for driving under the influence" syn 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".
[2]influence vt -enced ; -enc.ing (1658) 1: to affect or alter by indirect or intangible means: sway
2: to have an effect on the condition or development of: modify syn see affect -- in.flu.ence.able adj