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influence
influence definition
in·flu·ence (in′flo̵̅o̅ əns, in flo̵̅o̅′əns)
noun
- Astrol. the flowing of an ethereal fluid or power from the stars, thought to affect people's character and actions
- the power of persons or things to affect others, seen only in its effects
- the action or effect of such power
- the ability of a person or group to produce effects indirectly by means of power based on wealth, high position, etc.
- a person or thing that has influence
- Elec. the effect of an external field
Etymology: OFr < ML influentia, a flowing in < L influens, prp. of influere, to flow in < -in, in + fluere, to flow: see fluctuate
transitive verb influenced -·enced, influencing -·enc·ing
to exert or have influence on; have an effect on the nature, behavior, development, action, or thought of
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