influence: Meaning and Definition of

in•flu•ence

1. the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others: He used family influence to get the contract.
2. the action or process of producing effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of another or others: Her mother's influence made her stay.
3. a person or thing that exerts influence: He is an influence for the good.
1. the radiation of an ethereal fluid from the stars, regarded as affecting human actions and destinies.
2. the exercise of occult power by the stars, or such power as exercised.
5. the exercise of similar power by human beings.
6. influx.
7. less than drunk but with one's nervous system impaired: He was driving while under the influence.

1. to exercise influence on; affect; sway: to influence a person.
2. to move or impel (a person) to some action: Outside factors influenced her to resign.