Need another word for Influence? Use these synonyms of Influence from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
impact
effect
power
control
authority
sway
dominance
persuasion
pressure
force
weight
clout
prestige
reputation
standing
stature
importance
significance
leverage
momentum
sway
guidance
direction
leadership
inspiration
motivation
impetus
catalyst
stimulus
provocation
incitement
goad
spur
incentive
inducement
encouragement
backing
support
patronage
favor
backing
advocacy
championship
endorsement
sanction
approval
ratification
confirmation
validation
Meaning of Influence
The primary meaning of "influence" is the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.
Definitions
- The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself
- * A person or thing that has an influence on someone or something
Etymology of Influence
The word "influence" comes from the Old French word "influencer," which is derived from the Latin words "in" (meaning "in" or "into") and "fluere" (meaning "to flow"), and initially meant "a flow of water" or "an influx," later developing to mean "an astrological or mystical flowing-in of fluid or power"
Historically, the term was used to describe the supposed flow of fluid or power from the stars or other celestial bodies that was believed to affect human affairs
Example Uses
- The company's influence on the market has been significant
- * Her parents had a profound influence on her career choice
- * The book had a lasting influence on the development of the genre
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
isolation
independence
freedom
autonomy
self-sufficiency
neutrality
impartiality
detachment
disinterest
indifference
insignificance
inconsequentiality
irrelevance
obscurity
anonymity
powerlessness
weakness
ineffectiveness
ineptness
uselessness
futility
impotence
helplessness