definition of
influence

[1] #1 influence n. a power to affect persons or events especially power based on prestige etc; "used her parents' influence to get the job". wn

[2] #2 influence v. [act upon, work] have and exert influence or effect; "The artist's work influenced the young painter"; "She worked on her friends to support the political candidate". wn

[3] #3 influence n. causing something without any direct or apparent effort. wn

[4] #4 influence v. [determine, shape, mold, regulate] shape or influence; give direction to; "experience often determines ability"; "mold public opinion". wn

[5] #5 influence n. a cognitive factor that tends to have an effect on what you do; "her wishes had a great influence on his thinking". wn