influence

/ˈɪnfluəns/
noun
  1. The power to affect or change someone or something, often without direct force.
    • The politician used his influence to pass the new law.
    • Social media has a huge influence on young people.
    • Her teacher had a strong influence on her career choice.
  2. A person or thing that has the power to affect others.
    • That book was a major influence on my thinking.
    • She is considered an influence in the fashion world.
    • His grandfather was a positive influence in his life.
verb
  1. To have an effect on the way someone or something develops, behaves, or thinks.
    • Advertising tries to influence what people buy.
    • Parents influence their children's habits from an early age.
    • The weather can influence your mood.
What does "influence" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean