- Influence
- Influence In"flu*ence ([i^]n"fl[-u]*ens), n. [F. influence,
fr. L. influens, -entis, p. pr. See {Influent}, and cf.
{Influenza}.]
1. A flowing in or upon; influx. [Obs.]
[1913 Webster]
God hath his influence into the very essence of all things. --Hooker. [1913 Webster]
2. Hence, in general, the bringing about of an effect, physical or moral, by a gradual process; controlling power quietly exerted; agency, force, or tendency of any kind which affects, modifies, or sways; as, the influence which the sun exerts on animal and vegetable life; the influence of education on the mind; the influence, according to astrologers, of the stars over affairs. [1913 Webster]
Astrologers call the evil influences of the stars, evil aspects. --Bacon. [1913 Webster]
Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion? --Job xxxviii. 31. [1913 Webster]
She said : ``Ah, dearest lord! what evil star On you hath frown'd, and poured, his influence bad?'' --Spenser. [1913 Webster]
3. Power or authority arising from elevated station, excelence of character or intellect, wealth, etc.; reputation; acknowledged ascendency; as, he is a man of influence in the community. [1913 Webster]
Such influence hath your excellency. --Sir P. Sidney. [1913 Webster]
4. (Elec.) Induction.
Syn: Control; persuasion; ascendency; sway; power; authority; supremacy; mastery; management; restraint; character; reputation; prestige. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.